The Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra's move to Eastbourne for its annual New Year's Eve Viennese concert did nothing to dent ticket sales, with the BPO for the playing once again to an almost-full house.
Once again the audience was thrilled to hear the waltzes and polkas of Johann Strauss and his family and associates which by the turn of the 20th Century marked the peak of Viennese light music.
Some may argue that Strauss and company's music is schmaltzy but it never fails to thrill the heart and set the feet tapping. It is popular music at its best.
With Barry Wordsworth at the baton, this year's concert was a serious affair. He eschewed the jokes and Christmas cracker-like gags in favour of more important work, making the beautiful music shine through with clarity.
Helping him to achieve this was orchestra leader John Bradbury with two fine violin solos written by Fritz Kreisler, and internationally-renowned soprano Mary Hegarty, who gave a mesmerising performance of Vilia and other numbers from The Merry Widow.
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