MIDDLESBROUGH’S series of classical concerts continued with this long established Austrian ensemble conducted by the current music director, Andrés Orozco- Estrada, born in Columbia but trained in Vienna.

Kodály’s Dances from Galánta was an effective demonstration of the orchestra’s qualities, with several clearly played instrumental solos and great control when the pace gradually increased, then slowed again before building up again to great effect.

Next was Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 1, a remarkably accomplished work for his first published composition, written as a student, though revised 20 years later.

The demanding solo part was played by the eminent pianist Barry Douglas in a convincing and authoritative performance which unfortunately was compromised by the piano going out of tune although it had been tuned immediately before the concert.

The orchestral support was outstanding with some delicate blends from the woodwind and rich, assertive rasps from the trombones and trumpets.

In Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, the Pastoral, the orchestra – some 60 musicians strong – was very well balanced with no obvious weak links.

I enjoyed the light touch in the opening Allegro but in the following Andante, By the brook, they were even lighter and gently flowing with playing as fine as I’ve heard.

The storm in the penultimate movement was suitably vivid, leading into the final pastoral mood in a most convincing performance with the prayer at the end played so effectively and softly.

Peter Bevan

  • The next concert is by the Royal Northern Sinfonia on Thursday, April 24; box office 01642-729729.