As many readers will know, Lichfield Cathedral is in an experimental partnership with a professional Orchestra whose purpose is to ensure three performances of orchestral music every year in the Cathedral, and three orchestral contributions to the Cathedral's Sunday worship at high points in the liturgical year.
Those fortunate enough to be present in the Cathedral for the inaugural performance of the Darwin Ensemble Chamber Orchestra on 31 January 2009 will no doubt share my excitement at the prospect of more inspiring concerts to come.
For, without doubt, the quality of their offering, before an enraptured audience exceeding three hundred, was matched only by the majesty of this graceful, historic building. No wonder that these talented musicians, under the skilful direction of conductor Philip Scriven, received a standing ovation at the end of an entertaining and well-balanced programme of Mozart and Beethoven.
Artistic director Alex Laing, also leader of DECO – to use the shortened version of the orchestra's name – has set his stall out on offering mainly popular and accessible classical music for the local community, especially children among whom he is very keen to create an interest.
He could not have chosen a better start, with Mozart's Overture to the Marriage of Figaro providing a light and lithe introduction in the composer's typical style. This is a work that most will know and it was a perfect showcase for the orchestra's fine ensemble. Next was a real treat – and for me the highlight of a memorable evening – Mozart's Third Violin Concerto. Once again the maestro's work was brilliantly interpreted, particularly by soloist Simon Blendis, who has worked with fine orchestras in many countries, such as the Ensemble Kanazawa in Japan, Spain's Basque National Orchestra and our own Royal Philharmonic. His delightful touch left an impression on everyone.
The second half of the programme was devoted to Beethoven's often stirring First Symphony, perhaps less well-known than some of the later symphonies, but nonetheless masterly, being composed at a time when the influence of his teacher Haydn was combined with Beethoven's own burgeoning ingenuity and individuality.
Alex Laing made a short, but sincere speech expressing gratitude to everyone who had attended this affordable and enjoyable concert. Yet the thanks should have been the other way around, from a highly delighted audience to the players whose enchanting performance will, no doubt, tempt many to return for another DECO performance. Why not join them? David Whinyates
