FOR its second concert of the season, Teesside Music Society welcomed internationally renowned pianist Noriko Ogawa.

Acclaimed for her complete recordings of Debussy’s piano music, it was a particular pleasure to hear her perform his Préludes, Book 1.

The 12 pieces have such descriptive titles it is tempting to try and visualise each scene but many succeed just as music, whatever Debussy’s inspiration.

Ogawa’s performance held the audience spellbound with shimmering Voiles, the contrasting Des pas sur la neige with notes hanging beautifully in the air, an exquisitely soft and gentle La fille aux cheveux de lin and the strongly narrative La Cathédrale engloutie.

Known for her commitment to contemporary music the pianist has commissioned a series of pieces from renowned Japanese composer Yoshiro Kanno, one of which she performed here.

In A particle of water the pianist also plays the unique Myochin Hibashi, beautifully crafted chimes which were struck from time to time and possibly also resonated with the piano although I couldn’t judge that from the back of the church.

Producing a beautiful ringing sound they added a pleasing element to this very accessible shimmering piece which flowed gently at first, finally becoming faster before ending dramatically.

Though beginning vigorously Chopin’s Sonata No. 2 is best known for its Marche funebre and this was a moving performance, trudging slowly at first, increasingly emphatic and even briefly defiant.

The society’s next recital by the North York Moors Festival String Trio is at 3pm on Sunday, January 17; tickets from 01642 711618.

Peter Bevan