The ESO, with William Boughton at the helm, continued the current series with Bruch's Violin Concerto in G minor, Op.26 as the central work.

The youthful Leland Chen was soloist in a performance of artistry and technical aplomb.

'Vorspiel' began with a beautiful solo statement which developed into splendid double stopping, and impressive ascending chromatic scales poised above plucked low orchestral strings.

The familiar, exquisite 'Adagio' was played elegantly. Leland's cantabile style was magical, with dark velvet low notes and brightly sweet high ones. Orchestra and soloist phrased the music poetically, the body of strings exuding a dazzling radiance.

Orchestral copying of Leland's energetic rhythmic episodes in 'Allegro energetico' heard the orchestra magnificent when playing at full throttle. Sympathetic communication between soloist and orchestra, woodwind section in particular, had been witnessed throughout this concerto's fine interpretation.

Brahms's Symphony No.2 in D, Op.73 was introduced by sedate playing from low strings and woodwind, then robust string and brass sections guided the way through the 'Allegro non troppo'. 'Adagio non troppo' sung by gorgeous full blooded cellos, punctuated by woodwind, was interrupted repeatedly by a fine solo horn.

The entire orchestra played in emphatic rhythm to produce a glorious vibrancy and vivid orchestral texture in 'Allegro con spiritu', with a closing stanza of well controlled acceleration.

Weber's Overture Der Freischutz prefaced the concert, displaying instrumental flexibility, precisely timed rests and sensitive dynamics, as the musicians romped along.

The next ESO concert is on Friday, November8 , when Richard Strauss's Horn Concerto No.2 will feature.

Jill Hopkins