MUSIC from composers with a Bohemian connection dominated the second BSO Teatime concert at the Pavilion this season. Classic FM's presenter Catherine Bott introduced the pieces and reminded us all what a "wonderful world class orchestra" the BSO are. Conducted by Frank Zielhorst, he once again showed his immense talent and passion.

Starting with Brahm's Academic Festival Overture written in 1880 as a musical "thank you" to the University of Breslaw for his honorary Doctorate - he tried a written note of thanks first, and was politely told this wasn't enough! Described by Catherine Bott as a "very boisterous pot pourri of student drinking songs", the piece was delightful ranging from the delicate to the rousing with a majestic ending.

Smetana's The High Castle followed, one of 6 symphonic poems from Má Vlast (My Homeland). It describes the Vyšehrad Castle in Prague from its early beginnings right through to its collapse and then beauty in ruins. The composer started to lose his hearing and eventually became deaf after this composition. Its beautiful dual harp opening was a real treat and the BSO elegantly performed throughout.

We were then treated to the immense talent of violinist Chloë Hanslip. Performing in public since the age of just 4, Hanslip is as Bott described "an exceptional young woman". Her face reflected every passion and emotion of Mendelssohn's stunning violin concerto, one of the most popular and most performed violin concertos of all time. Its 3 movements are played attacca - straight after each other, and unlike many solo pieces, Hanslip was straight on board by the second bar of the music, giving it her all throughout.

The second half comprised Dvořák's 7th Symphony, often overlooked in favour of the 9th (think Hovis advert!), but an absolute delight to hear. Catherine Bott introduced it as "a fabulous workout for every single section of the orchestra" and "full of Czech rhythm, melody, heart and soul". The 1st movement was bold and dramatic, moving into the contrasting 2nd which portrayed the sadness of loss (inspired by the deaths of Dvořák's mother and eldest child). The 3rd movement was rousing, infectious and majestic, played at a frenetic pace, with the finale both dramatic and powerful. An amazing symphony and a personal favourite after today!

Referring to the "tremendous rapport and friendship between Frank (Zielhorst) and his players", Catherine Bott seemed delighted to witness another tremendous BSO performance as was I, and it was disappointing to see an audience of only half capacity in attendance.

Stephanie Hall