Led by Lyn Fletcher, leader of the Halle Orchestra, the Halle Soloists comprise the leading principal players of the Halle Orchestra and their performances together provide an opportunity to focus on the versatility of the individual instruments rather than the role which they play within a larger orchestra.

The soloists this evening comprised Lyn Fletcher on violin, Sarah Ewins on violin, Tim Pooley on viola and Nick Trygstad on cello.

The programme opened with a stupendous rendition of Bach’s Solo Cello Suite no.3 in C Major. One of the most striking features was the incredible concentration exhibited by Nick Trygstad, whose perfection in playing was punctuated by moments of total stillness to mark the break between movements.

The second piece was the duo for Violin and Cello, Op 7 by Zoltan Kodaly. Heavily influenced by his native Hungarian folk music, this duet is a piece of passion and drama interwoven with a sense of melancholy played out by the violin. This is particularly the case in the mesmeric second movement which is achingly beautiful in parts. The third movement proved a perfect showcase for the skilful musicianship of the two performers, highlighting wonderfully their dexterity.

Mozart’s duo for violin and viola in G Major saw an incredible performance by husband and wife Sarah Ewins and Tim Pooley. This featured a melodic interchange between the instruments so that neither dominated, but both complemented one another perfectly.

Concluding the programme was Verdi’s string quartet in E minor, providing a chance to hear a most unusual piece. Even its composer was not sure whether it was beautiful or ugly. However, the rapturous applause from the audience would suggest this dramatic piece was, if not beautiful, at least well received and it made a fitting finale.

Gill O’Donnell