Norfolk Symphony Orchestra, King's Lynn

ALISON CROOSE Every NSO occasion incorporates a very special treat, and this time it was the performance by Sophia Rahman of a Shostakovich piano concerto.a

ALISON CROOSE

Every NSO occasion incorporates a very special treat, and this time it was the performance by Sophia Rahman of a Shostakovich piano concerto.

She won many admirers at last year's Lynn Festival and it was good to have the opportunity to witness the highly talented young player interpreting the second piano concerto with such brio.

Sophia looked so business-like but also displayed an infectious enthusiasm which had great emotional impact.

The style of the work demands immaculate technique but equally important is the ability to translate bold melodies and soulful melancholy. Under the direction of James Stobart the orchestra played with great discipline, never displaying its unified force better than in Dvorak's Symphony No 6 with its rich harmonies and invigorating rhythms. The work is not often performed and the audience clearly welcomed the chance to indulge in its pleasures.

A thoroughly entertaining occasion was completed with the musical pictures painted by Strauss in his folk tale, Till Eulenspiegel. The German peasant's adventures proffered the excuse to listen to some bold orchestration.

t The Norfolk Symphony Orchestra concert was at King's Lynn Corn Exchange.