THIS was Viv McLean’s first recital for Darlington Piano Society in 15 years and in a particularly attractive programme he began with two of J S Bach’s Choral Preludes, transcribed for piano by Busoni.

Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659 was beautifully measured with a stately approach and McLean invested Ich ruf zu dir, Jesu Christ, BWV 639 with a touch more warmth.

A short Chopin selection opened with the Prelude in C sharp minor, Op. 45 which began conversationally before becoming more exploratory, and the Ballade No. 3 also began thoughtfully then became quite dramatic and explosive towards its conclusion.

The soothing Nocturne in E flat major, Op. 9, No. 2 was played with perfect timing and expression, some of the notes held shimmering in the air, the posthumous C sharp minor Nocturne was also played with great sensitivity followed by a vivid performance of Ballade No. 1 played with great conviction and dash.

The final piece, Beethoven’s magnificent Diabelli variations, Op. 120, had been specially requested by the piano society.

It is remarkable just how much variety Beethoven could find in these 33 variations on Diabelli’s simple waltz from the grand and pompous to the flowing and lyrical.

It also often made me smile as much as admire its breadth in a performance which was certainly impressive if not quite having the authority of his Chopin pieces.

The society’s final recital by Alasdair Beatson is on Sunday, March 20; details at dpiano.co.uk or call 01325 401061.

Peter Bevan