THIS ten-piece multi-national ensemble, a larger group than we normally see in this series, enabled Darlington Music Society to present a rather different programme than usual.

It was split rather neatly into two distinct halves with the first containing some baroque gems beginning with Vivaldi’s Concerto in G major, RV157.

With four violins, two violas, cello, double bass and harpsichord it was about as small a group as you could have for a Vivaldi concerto but the sound was agreeably full in the ensembles with a lightness in the texture when instruments were set against each other.

Albinoni’s Concerto, St Marc, was a fine showpiece for the trumpet although the modern instrument used tended to dominate rather than blend with the strings.

Bach’s glorious Violin Concerto in A minor began with quite a vigorous and nippy Allegro and there was a surprising depth from just cello, double bass and harpsichord in the Andante.

The second half featured some later classics for string orchestra.

Holst’s St Paul’s Suite opened with a very sprightly Gig and some good dynamics followed by some short but pleasing solos for violin and viola set against pizzicato accompaniment before the folk-based Finale.

Fauré’s brief but haunting Pavane was particularly well played with individual contributions from the leader, viola and cello and perfect support from the ensemble.

A finely judged Holberg Suite by Grieg and a couple of encores – one a very original and amusing medley – concluded a particularly successful concert.

  • The society’s final recital by the Jubilee Quartet is on Saturday, April 5. Tickets from the Dolphin Centre on 01325-388410.

Peter Bevan