THE Horns of Opera North gave a concert with Martin Pickard for Ripon Cathedral Concert Society. Resound they certainly did in the building's glorious acoustic.

Pickard, conductor and pianist, led us on a fascinating journey through the developmental changes of the horn, from Mozart in the mid-18th century, through the romantic zenith of the 19th century to the 20th, giving a fascinating introduction to each piece.

The group played quartets, trios, duos and solos, too many to itemise here.

John Pratt performed the Rondo of Horn Concerto no. 1 in D, KV 514. Mozart's original and naughty commentary, both music and words, were printed in the programme so the audience could follow, chortle and understand a little more of Mozart the man. The playing had just the right balance of humour and aplomb.

Bob Ashworth treated us to the Elegie for piano and horn by Heinrich Hofmann. His sure, silken sound and liquid slurs captured the essence of romanticism.

The Konzertstuck op. 4 by Oscar Franz was a tour de force by Alex Hamilton and Max Garrard.

The ensemble was led by Bob Ashworth, founding first horn of Opera North. Balance was sensitive and thoughtful, with wide dynamic variety and some breath catching quiet playing. The Freischutz Fantasy was thrilling.

A highlight was when horns were exchanged for Wagner tubas. The quartet played a theme from Bruckner's 7th symphony and the Valhalla leitmotiv from Wagner's Ring of the Nibelungen. The ethereal sound, unearthly and mellow, seemed to float to heaven through the rafters.

These instruments are renowned for having a mind of their own, and it is a tribute to the four fine players that tone quality was effortless and attack and tuning so precise.

The final Reinhold Beck quartet, Op. 1 was a test of virtuosity with typical horn special effects – muted playing, hand stopping, cuivre, fading piannissimi, brassy fortes, cross rhythms. Timbres and textures were fully explored and constantly changing. Despite the demanding and challenging programme, the players sounded as fresh as at the start and were obviously enjoying themselves. The large audience was buzzing at the end.

The society's next concert is on Monday, March 14. For details see riponconcerts.co.uk.

Christina Thomson Jones