The main work of this concert was Mozart's 5th Violin Concerto, the structure of which is of particular interest having a cadenza in each of the three movements and containing an unusual variety of tempo.

The Swedish soloist Marianne Thorsen was equal to every challenge in a performance of much charm and strong feeling.

The symphony was Haydn's early 22nd, The Philosopher, with its stately opening movement displaying profound sentiments. Thereafter, full-blooded presto was the order of the day.

Barber's Adagio is his best-loved work and we heard it in its original context of the composer's middle movement is his Quartet, translated for chamber orchestra -- a real treat.

The orchestra under Douglas Boyd warmed up with two miniatures -- one crept from Cassius spell fanta Sierra ia Sierra and silly Bradford of Purcell's many from gaseous and the enterprising first performance of a new piece by a student at the orchestra's residency at the Royal Northern College of Music.

John Pettitt