Haffner Orchestra, Ashton Hall, Lancaster.

THE inspiring Haffner concert appropriately reflected a very British summer evening. The summer mood was made even more British with the programme including two pieces by Elgar, Larghetto from Serenade for Strings and his Cello Concerto, featuring the rising cello star Megan Rolf. This was rounded off with a classic performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No 3 (Eroica), conducted throughout by the charismatic guest conductor Bob Chasey.

The Larghetto’ from Serenade for Strings by Elgar opened the concert and had a slightly tentative start from the strings. This, however, soon broke into lyrical, sensitive playing led by the violins, supported by the cellos. At times the piece needed a little more textural clarity and expression, but nevertheless, a pleasing start to the concert.

Elgar’s Cello Concerto smoothly followed on, featuring the impressive mature playing from the young cellist. The 1st Movement began with a beautiful lyrical and expressive theme from the soloist with very sensitive support from the orchestra throughout, leading to a lush tonal texture to finish the opening movement. The most impressive feature of the remaining two movements was the way in which the soloist was allowed to give full expression to all the majestic themes, due to masterly conducting by Bob Casey and controlled ensemble work by the orchestra. Overall, a very impressive debut concert performance from Megan.

The second half of the concert was given over entirely to Beethoven’s symphony no 3 (Eroica); what a treat we experienced. Although occasionally the melodic line needed more definition in the 1st movement, there was some impressive conversational playing between woodwind and strings. Exciting detail was added throughout by the woodwind, the four double basses adding to this, a rich and sonorous texture. The whole symphony rose to a powerful climax and expansive playing by the brass led us to a wonderfully exciting finale.

The most impressive feature of this concert more than any other recent Haffner performances, was the consistent, controlled and balanced ensemble playing throughout, which is becoming a feature of this orchestra. For that alone, it was a concert well worth being present at - thank you Haffner Orchestra.

Anna Pendlebury