A symphony entitled Great was the best way to end a successful King's Lynn Festival, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Corn Exchange.

By ALISON CROOSE

A symphony entitled Great was the best way to end a successful King's Lynn Festival, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Corn Exchange.

Schubert's ninth symphony in C major provided a dramatic climax and concluded a stunning concert

Conductor Garry Walker's style was relaxed but there was no doubting the authority he stamped on the work, guaranteeing the strength and flair of each section of the orchestra could be appreciated.

The pleasure in its execution built up through the lyrical andante and energetic scherzo.

The conductor's sensitive handling of this fine orchestra was evident from the opening bars of Mendelssohn's overture, Fingal's Cave.

There was another “great” feature in the second appearance of violinist Tasmin Little who teamed up with cellist Paul Watkins. The pattern of Brahms' Double Concerto was set as the cello introduced the themes and the violin joined in to create a fascinating and intriguing dialogue.

They showed a captivating empathy and the duet achieved its zenith in the Hungarian rondo to ensure a spellbinding finale.