The programme opened with Brahms's Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor with Anthony Goldstone the deeply thoughtful and eloquent soloist, his unfussy and profound interpretation helping to inspire the orchestra to a most rewarding performance.

Introducing the Maestoso, the opening drum roll and orchestra prefaced the rhetoric of the piano, soon to be extended by woodwind and strings. The pianist's powerful octaves, alternated with light feathery figures, led to a stirring finish.

Ravishing sustained and measured strings set the ponderous mood of the Adagio. With a serenely lyrical piano and superbly soft orchestral playing, especially by the strings, woodwind and a French horn. This was a movement to relish, before a plunge into the final Rondo, the ebullient soloist bringing his masterful expertise and strength to bear, together with a spectrum of orchestra colour, to a brilliant conclusion.

Bruckner's vast Symphony No. 4 in E flat produced a vivid and magnetic interpretation. The initial well-controlled horn and woodwind against tremolo strings gained in momentum and excitement until blazing brass and timpani charged the atmosphere. Quiet shimmering strings and agile double basses and cellos were distinguished. Also notable, were the sonorous, slow melodic lines of the Andante.

A speedy Scherzo suggested the rhythm of the chase, which intensified into the Trio. Alternating the melodious with delicacy of touch, the full orchestra raced with a rising crescendo, to a thrilling end.

JILL HOPKINS