Working with an orchestra and soloist in top form, conductor Peter Walls chose a programme of works by Mozart and two Russian two composers who had paid tribute to the masters of the classical symphonic form.
In Prokofiev's Classical Symphony he skilfully directed the players through music which had a complexity of influences like lyrical lines, ballet melodies and Haydnesque wit and from these drew out a stunning performance.
Tchaikovsky's Variation on a Rococo Theme revealed a cellist of rare gifts.
Matthias Balzat is a student with an outstanding natural ability and a marvellous musical ear, and these have been splendidly developed through astute training.
There was much to admire in his playing: elegance and intimacy, shapely phrasing and impeccable intonation, as well as a perceptive rapport with the orchestra.
