It was a risk for the Chichester Symphony Orchestra to choose an obscure symphony from the last century as the main item in its festivities concert.
The gamble paid off handsomely with a superb performance of Charles Stanford's Symphony no 6 which was fresh, dynamic and soared majestically in the skilful and safe hands of Michael Walsh (conductor).
Congratulations for taking the risk.
From the Father of British light music, Eric Coates. the Orchestra gave a brilliant interpretation of the London Every Day Suite. The musicians musically created the traffic, street cries and fanfares of the great City in this atmospheric composition which is full of memorable melodies.
Part of the work was remembered by the older members of the audience as the theme for the radio programme, In Town Tonight.
Under the obviously enthusiastic lead of Mark Hartt-Palmer, the strings of the orchestra dramatically created the exciting buzzing main theme of The Wasps by Ralph Vaughan Williams. The musicians playing was radiant and immensely cheerful giving an edge to this thrilling overture.
Playing with spirit and panache, Stephen Caldicott's version of Mozart's Horn Concerto No 2 was marvellous producing a marvellous tone. The Orchestra gave sensitive and well balanced accompaniment.
Graham Hewitt, Chichester Observer