Blackburn Symphony Orchestra, at Blackburn Cathedral

MARTIN Hardy conducted this concert of popular Tchaikovsky pieces, aided by a soloist from the BBC Philharmonic, in the suitably imposing setting of the cathedral.

The first piece was the ever popular Overture to the ballet Romeo and Juliet, which went well, despite slight problems with the brass and woodwind.

The second piece was Rococo Variations, with the cello solo played beautifully by Peter Dixon of the BBC Philharmonic, ably supported by the orchestra.

The final piece was the 5th Symphony, written in the aftermath of the composer having resolved many serious personal problems and struggles against fate.

This was brought out admirably by the expressive playing of the orchestra.

It was very disappointing not to have seen more people in the audience, but those who went had a very pleasant evening listening to lovely music in the cool of the cathedral.

The skill and commitment of the musicians is much to be admired.

So it is to be hoped that the people of Blackburn will support their performances more in the future.

LYNN SCHOFIELD

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.