The first piece after the national anthem was Tchaikovsky’s fantasy overture “Romeo and Juliet”. This atmospheric and tuneful piece beautifully conveys violence, love and finally a feeling of quiet sadness.
Next came Mozart’s Oboe Concerto (K314). This featured skilful and expressive Katherine Bryer on oboe. She and Mozart demonstrated the possibilities of this low-toned woodwind instrument in this lively and joyful piece.
The final piece was by Kalinnikov, a composer new to your reviewer. His forceful and melodious Symphony no 1 showed that he could well become better known. The performance proved that Todmorden orchestra is going from strength to strength.
The orchestra’s next concert is on November 19. To get on the email list, go to www.todmordenorchestra.org.uk.