The Sussex Symphony Orchestra put together a diverse musical programme for this Valentine’s Day concert, with the inspiration of generous-spirited conduc-tor Mark Andrew James.

Introducing the expansive theme to Out Of Africa as a tribute to John Barry, he reflected for a moment then commented to the audience; “I’m very jealous you can sit there and luxuriate in what we’re about to play for you!”

Occasionally, the impressively cavernous space of St Bartholomew’s Church affected the acoustics, with Prokofiev’s Montagues and Capulets sounding slightly muddy and imprecise.

However, the slow movement from Rachmaninov’s Second Symphony was played with great sensitivity as swelling, romantic chords swept through the audience.

Glamorous soprano Jo Appleby was entirely comfortable onstage, and shone particularly when performing Caccini’s Ave Maria – the second piece of music to be rearranged for the orchestra by their French horn player Andrew Brinsford.

The highlight of the evening was Gounod’s sumptuously beautiful Judex from Mors Et Vita; the stately brass and simple overarching theme creating a moving soundtrack. The smiling musicians blend together to create a wonderful warm sound and it’s no surprise that, accor-ding to the orchestra’s brochure, many couples have got together from within the ranks.