The final concert of the MCCS 2011 calendar year welcomed the legendary Chilingirian String Quartet to the Memorial Hall in a traditional programme of Haydn, Schubert and Dvorak.
The 'Chilis' have graced concert halls worldwide for over four decades and it's easy to see why: they produce a beautifully crafted, superbly matched sound both in articulation and expressive lyricism, and there is a remarkable freshness in performance despite their longevity.
Following the opening Haydn String Quartet, they were joined by the first of two musical guests, the Armenian cellist Alexander Chaushian. Chaushian's tone and charisma further bolstered the previously established rich quartet sound and we were treated to a truly sincere and absorbing performance of Schubert's masterpiece the Double Cello Quintet in C major.
Following the interval the quartet was joined by a second guest artist, Ashley Wass, the acclaimed British pianist. Arguably one of the greatest piano quintets ever written is that of Dvorak and this performance was the perfect contrast to the delicate Schubert that finished the first half. Wass was in fine form as he lavished his glorious rubato and tonal colours on proceedings, matched by some vibrant, spirited playing from the Chilis. What a treat and the perfect way to conclude the 2011 MCCS year!
Mr P T Dukes
Artistic Director