BBC Philharmonic, Westmorland Hall, Kendal

A visit by the BBC Philharmonic is always anticipated with relish; performances are out of the top drawer, eminent conductors display their expertise, players fill vast acreage of stage space, a full house is assured. So it was when, on Valentine’s Day, the Philharmonic (whilst no doubt mentally comparing the Westmorland Hall’s facilities with those in Manchester!) entertained in wondrous fashion. Bramwell Tovey, in assertive command throughout, oversaw performances of three works -

Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet overture, Elgar’s Enigma Variations and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherezade suite. Each befitted the occasion and each, in varying ways, was a showpiece illuminating the widely-ranging competence of his charges.

The entire programme was characterised by the highest levels of musicianship. It was a privilege to hear the extent to which the larger canvasses were developed and how the niceties inherent in the smallest of phrases were highlighted. Intriguing, too, was the stunning quality of technical dexterity continuously on display by all the principals and by the full orchestra.

It was an evening appropriately rich with lush, romantic harmony; the Lakeland Sinfonia Concert Society will be basking in its success.

Brian Paynes