A RAPTUROUS welcome awaited world renowned British cellist Steven Isserlis CBE as he entered the Concert Hall of Poole Lighthouse alongside the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra for a quite diverse programme of music. Shostakovich's Cello Concerto No 1, rarely performed, is widely considered to be one of the most difficult cello works to play and brought much anticipation from the capacity audience. Powerfully and masterfully attacked from the start by Isserlis, this 3 part concerto would certainly fall in the category of “challenging the audience” which conductor Kirill Karabits has been passionate about in his continuing leadership of the BSO. Whilst one cannot argue with the immense talent of Isserlis, for me the piece itself was quite difficult to absorb. Isserlis generously returned for an encore and joked “so now I feel I should play something with a bit of energy!” The audience were clearly entranced by the soloist, stomping their feet and cheering as he finished.

Prior to this, the BSO performed Prokofiev's Sinfonietta, having received much praise both nationally and internationally for their recordings of this great composer's works. Its five parts had something for everyone from the jaunty to the frantic and back again! Written 1909, Prokofiev revisited it 20 years later to work it to completion. “I took it apart and put it together again” he stated, dedicating the piece to his conducting teacher who initially had reservations about Prokofiev's abilities in this department!

In complete contrast, the second half comprising Haydn's 104th (and final) Symphony, also known as the London symphony was utterly beautiful. Sumptuous strings opening this 4 part feast built to a full orchestral delight and showed the BSO at their absolutely captivating best throughout. Composed in 1795, it painted a colourful picture of majesty and elegance. Including vibrant and regal menuetto and pacey and infectious spiritoso finale, the piece would have warmed the hearts of the coldest of listeners on this winter's evening. Kirill Karabits, conducting, again showed his amazing connection with his musicians throughout, putting his hand to his heart on receiving such deserved applause at the finish. “Quite incredible” was a comment on leaving from a fellow audience member. I would absolutely agree!

Stephanie Hall