Locrian Ensemble, Norwich

It was an unlikely programme title of A Strauss Evening In Buenos Aires, presented by the Locrian Ensemble in Norwich.

By MICHAEL DRAKE

It was an unlikely programme title of A Strauss Evening In Buenos Aires, presented by the Locrian Ensemble in Norwich.

Did he ever go to Buenos Aires? It doesn't matter for we have come to follow our old friends – better rephrase that to “friends of old” – in whatever guise or combination they come.

Last night, morning suit-dressed and reminiscent of the old Palm Court Orchestra to start with, the violins, viola and cello were joined by guests on piano and harmonium with a resurrection by their leader and resident comedian, Justin Pearson, of Schoenberg's orchestration of Strauss's Roses from the South.

While Pepetuum Mobile nearly ran away from itself, the South American connection was moody and rhythmic for viola and piano and, for the first time in my experience, there was sultry sexiness from the Locrian – with the addition of their tango dancers – although perhaps musically the most exciting and satisfying had been the Finale of Brahms' G minor Piano Quartet.

Add the delightful piano trio arrangement in a selection from Bellini's Norma, with the Maddermarket Theatre lending itself to the drawing room atmosphere the Ensemble creates, and it is no surprise there was another full house.

“Fans £1” proclaimed the foyer notice – Locrian have their own whom they never fail to entertain.