Norwich Baroque

St Michael's Church, Aylsham

Norwich Baroque presented an evening of superb music in the beautiful medieval church of St Michael in Aylsham.

The energy and panache of the performers was evident from the exuberant opening chords of the Arrival of the Queen of Sheba to the final Allegro of Handel's Concerto Grosso Op .6 . no.11.

Led by violinist John Crockatt, the musicians delivered a well-balanced programme combining favourites such as Canon in D by Pachelbel with the lesser known Gigue, works by Richard Mudge and a stunning performance of the Concerto for 2 Oboes in C Major by Vivaldi.

This was real ensemble playing, with constant eye contact, alertness and synchronicity.

The soloists, Jeremy Foster and Cathy Wilcock, delivered subtly intricate and technically excellent work which thrilled the audience and rightly received thunderous applause.

Earlier, Jeremy Foster had just finished the first movement of Albinoni's Concerto for oboe when a bell tolled audibly. There was a ripple of laughter through the audience. This summed up the atmosphere of spontaneity and energy evident throughout the evening.

These musicians interpret the music with dynamism, precision and style. They have rapidly built a loyal following, and are a joy both to watch and hear.