The English Symphony Orchestra, conducted by William Boughton, opened the first half of the concert playing Elgar's beautiful "Introduction and Allegro", followed by pieces depicting very English music by Vaughan Williams and Benjamin Britten. Their playing was excellent, but I am sure most of the audience were really waiting in anticipation of Nigel's performance in the second half of the Beethoven Violin Concerto. When he appeared on stage he received a tremendous reception from the audience. Before commnecing playing he recounted an amusing account he had experienced with the new accoustic panels, when they were turned around the wrong way, so that the audience were able to hear his backstage conversation. He said this was most unfortunate. Knowing our Nigel I expect it was rather colourful!

He then tuned his Guarneri and gave us a brilliant rendition of the last movement of Bach's Solo 'C' Major Partita. Then followed the Beethoven Concerto. His interpretation was warm, passionate, and played with such intensity; the atmosphere in the hall was pure magic! The final Cadenza in the closing Rondo, which was Nigel's own improvisation, was the best of three versions I've heard him perform. At the end of the concert he received a well deserved standing ovation from an audience who would love to have heard more. Unfortunately, for once, we were disappointed. The orchestra must have been playing "over-time", as they were lead off the stage rather abruptly by the conductor, so there was no encore.

Afterwards, we went backstage to see Nigel. We were well received, and he chatted to us about his recent Kreisler recording, concerts in Vienna, football and the progress of baby Sark.

The weekend was a great success. We always have such fun when we get together enjoying ourselves doing what we all like best: supporting Nigel in his music making.