Directed from the front desk by the distinguished violinist Clio Gould

International concert violinist Clio Gould – no stranger to Norfolk – directed the latest annual Academy of St Thomas visit to Salle Church. It was a splendid occasion, says Frank Cliff.

The AST’s annual visit to the magnificent church at Salle is invariably a splendid occasion. Thus it was on Saturday, with the band on splendid form in a varied programme, directed from the front desk by the distinguished violinist Clio Gould.

First, two works for strings: Gordon Jacob’s Overture for Strings, boisterous, lively music, excellently done, then Elliot Carter’s Elegy for Strings, lyrical music, played with real warmth and tonal beauty, before a stylish performance of Haydn’s symphony No. 22, the wind playing of the unusual scoring of two horns and two cor anglais very fine.

Clio Gould gave a mastarly reading of Mozart’s A major concerto, showing a natural feel for Mozart’s line and phrasing, with excellent balance between soloist and orchestra.

A spectacular performance of Bartok’s Rumanian Folk Dances provided a splendid finale.