The Elias String Quartet performed a trio of pieces by Josef Haydn, Benjamin Britten and Felix Mendelssohn to an extremely high quality and intensity.

The relationship between the musicians was compelling to watch, the years spent together clearly showing in their deep intuition and understanding of the group and the music chosen.

A journey was created for the audience through the pieces from three different composers, exploring different moods and atmospheres - relaxing, stirring, and reflective.

The three composers complemented each other beautifully.

A standout highlight was the encore piece – a Scottish melody traditionally played on New Year’s Day by the best fiddler to wake up people in the town, the beautiful sweeping violin solo simply supported by long, deep tones from the cello.

The drama and romance of the Scottish countryside was evoked by the full quartet coming together to share and develop the phrases of the solo.

Elias String Quartet provided a deeply enjoyable and reflective concert; highly recommended.

Their appearance was in partnership with Strings Attached, a voluntary group dedicated to promoting chamber music in the local area.

Five stars