Last updated 05:35, Friday, 25 July 2008

Bach and BrahmsTwo chamber music works featured in a recital played by the cellist Edmund Pendrous with his sister, pianist Stella Pendrous. Bach’s G Major Suite for Viola di Gamba, in an arrangement by the famous 19th-century cellist Alfredo Piatti, proved an inspired first choice. Throughout all four movements, both musicians gave their utmost attention to nuances of phrasing, dynamics and to the many subtle changes in harmony.

Brahms’s E Minor Cello Sonata, in a completely different style, makes intricate and varied demands on both cellist and pianist. A substantial first movement ends with a shift into the key of E major, like a ray of sunshine. A comparatively light-weight movement follows, in the key of A minor.

The composer makes significant use of counterpoint in the finale, thus paying homage to the music of an earlier age.

These two performers played this sonata with great conviction, creating an atmosphere of considerable enjoyment, a mood shared by the enthusiastic and appreciative audience.

ALAN WILCOCK