MICHAEL DRAKE This lunchtime concert in Norwich series marked the debut of the ensemble of seven principals of the full COA.

MICHAEL DRAKE

This lunchtime concert, at the Assembly House in Norwich, in the Monthly Music 01 series marked the debut of the ensemble of seven principals of the full COA and started with a somewhat abridged edition of the Strauss symphonic poem Till Eulenspiegel. His merry pranks, arranged for violin, clarinet, horn, bassoon and double bass, were introduced as “grotesque”, and that feeling pervaded the piece while at least giving an opportunity to really hear all the parts. A bit of fun which nevertheless required much individual skill.

Then to the more serious, and one of Beethoven's most performed chamber works for wind instruments, the Septet in E flat major Op 20. A sombre opening mood led to an allegro conbrio in extremis, beautifully and often delicately handled.

The finale was of some intensity but with never less than a spring in its step. This was music to sigh for.