January 2009

Dear Music-lover,

In Paul’s absence on a much deserved trip to the Alps, I have been volunteered to write the concert report – a rather onerous task!

Well, sorry Paul, you missed a tremendous concert – and the Schumann! Simply superb…. We were very grateful that Helen Standen stood in once again as page turner – and she certainly was made to work. Quite often she had barely time to sit down before the next page had to be turned as Ben Frith’s fingers flew across the keys.

It is such a pleasure to meet and entertain the musical groups who make the long trip north, and the Frith Piano Quartet was no exception. They aren’t strangers to the Highlands, as they have often played at Nairn, and indeed Ben Frith is returning for a solo recital in March as part of Music Nairn’s programme.

The quartet has a wealth of experience playing in orchestras and chamber ensembles, and they were able to bring us up to date with all the news of performers whom we have entertained in the past. Ben Frith seems to criss-cross the country at an alarming rate, leaving us on Thursday morning on the 7am plane for Manchester. He then drove home to Sheffield, on to London for a rehearsal, prior to performing in Helensburgh on Saturday. His energy is daunting.

Richard Jenkinson, the ‘cellist is a principal with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, which he combines with solo and ensemble work, and some conducting. There were so many wonderfully lyrical ‘cello solos in the three quartets that we had ample opportunity to appreciate his mastery of his wonderful Grancino ‘cello – made in Milan in 1692.

Louise Williams - as the only female member of the group - felt she should add a splash of colour and sparkle to the evening – and she did, from her top to her shoes! She was a founder member of the Endellion Quartet, and a former player in the Chilingirian Quartet, and now combines her chamber playing with family life. Her beautiful viola had every opportunity to sing out, particularly in the Schumann.

Robert Heard was co-leader of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, but decided to ‘retire’ to devote more time to his Berkshire pigs and Maran chickens. He now combines producing wonderful pork and sausages with a very busy recital schedule. I didn’t establish whether the flavour of the pork is improved by the wonderful music which must drift around the pigs, but he has a list of customers – including most of the Halle Orchestra - who queue up for his produce.

We had a large and appreciative audience who were treated to a super evening, which was rounded off by a quirky Weber Minuet and Trio.

If you want a real treat, Paul, we’ll just to have the Frith Quartet back – and you’ll have to ensure that you don’t head off to the piste at the same time!

Alison Marr