This began with a genuinely Mozartian full, well balanced sound, which contrasted well with the chamber qualities in later movements. Some string only movements displayed a rich and well balanced sound, particularly between the 1st & 2nd violins when playing in parallel.

Not one of Mozart’s best known overtures, this begins with unison strings, often a challenge to amateur orchestras. However this was well in tune, confidently played and with a rich string tone. It was followed by the woodwind playing delicately with a chamber-like quality which set the tone for the rest of the piece. The orchestra was well balanced and there was good contrast in the dynamics and articulation.

That the Chichester Symphony Orchestra can attract soloists of the international standard calibre of Ben Goldscheider is a clear reflection of the orchestra’s current status. It was a true evening’s entertainment that undoubtedly deserves to attract new audiences and will easily retain its present faithful adherents. Further full houses will inevitably follow this challenging but balanced programme.

Strauss’s Overture to Die Fledermaus was a firecracker of an opening. Conductor Mark Hartt-Palmer was able to conjure up lots of contrast, from lilting waltz passages to fiery polkas, and we might almost have imagined ourselves at the New Year’s Ball in Vienna!