Tim Kliphuis Trio, Kendal Town Hall

An air of excited expectancy filled the town hall. Because the light was dim eyes were drawn to the discretely illuminated stage which, apart from an off-centre stool, was empty. The atmosphere was warm as though the room had been in use earlier. Indeed it had: over three hundred children had been there having the time of their lives. The appointed hour arrived: 1 o’clock. The house lights were doused and, although there was no side drum roll, three casually attired gentlemen appeared - one with a violin, one with a guitar, the other with a bass - acknowledged the polite applause and started their hour-long diversion: the show was on the road!

The internationally famed Tim Kliphuis Trio wowed the venerable members of Kendal’s Midday Concert Club with one of its characteristic electrifying performances. Jaw-dropping feats of technical virtuosity and improvisation, all in impeccable musical style, illuminated performances of a heady blend of Grappelli, Vivaldi, Django Rheinhardt, Fauré, Hoagy Carmichael, Copland and folk music. It was magnificent!

The youngsters had thoroughly enjoyed themselves earlier. Our ebullient applause demonstrated that the oldies had, too.

Brian Paynes