When you watch Nigel Kennedy you know you are in for something a little off the classical track.

Tonight was that and something more as Kennedy bought his unique and incredible talent and delightful personality to Bournemouth.

Along with his Orchestra of Life- a multi cultural group of hand picked and very special musicians, Kennedy owned the stage throughout and seemed to stop time as he mesmerised the entire Pavilion.

Clad in an Aston Villa away shirt (of course), along with baggy trousers and trainers, there was nothing remotely scruffy or casual about this spirited and breath-taking performance.

A first half of dedications to those that have influenced him since his child prodigy days studying under Yehudi Menuhin, this was packed full of improvisations and joyful collaborations between Kennedy and his band, with their connection so energetic and special, it was infectious.

“It is never going to be the same any night twice” Kennedy told us, and such was the magic of seeing the maestro create such unique live music - something you can’t share on downloads, as he put it.

There was plenty of banter, fist pumping and foot stomping to the evening, but make no mistake, when there is music to be played, it is like Kennedy has flicked a switch as eyes shut he gives his entire being to every note of his playing.

The second half was Kennedy’s much talked about new interpretation of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Having seen him perform it’s original at the Royal Festival Hall in the nineties, there was something very magical about experiencing this new work over twenty something years later.

It really was an exquisite and imaginative piece of music and though some critics have commented “Vivaldi would be turning in his grave”, I have to disagree. I think he would have a pretty big grin on his face, just like the violinist at the helm tonight.

Sad not to see a full house tonight and though some might have been deterred by the ticket prices, we received two and a half hours of Kennedy’s magic, which made for a totally unforgettable night.

To use the words of the lady sat next to me: “I have never seen a group of musicians having so much fun on stage. I loved every minute of it”.

Couldn’t have summed it up better myself.

Steph Hall