Tickhill Music Society review

The Tickhill Music Society got off to a cracking start with the Erato Piano Trio.

Their name is the Muse of Love Poetry from Greek mythology. There was plenty of love for music and poetry in execution but also much more; in particular some close team work and balanced ensemble.

This was especially remarkable because Simon Watterton had replaced the indisposed regular pianist at very short notice. He instantly integrated into the team as though he had been with them for years. Amazing.

The Trio No. 39 by Haydn was full of his geniality and invention, the lyrical slow movement being followed by the final Rondo played with blistering pace and drive, its Hungarian influence accounting for the nickname of the Gypsy Trio.

In contrast the Trio by Fauré was more introspective and reflective. The first movement lyrical and intense, the second a beautiful singing melody and shifting light and shade.

The finale was angular and rich in rhythmic complexity. A fine achievement for an old man beginning to go deaf. Both works were introduced by the founder of the group Julia Morneveg.

The pianist introduced Beethoven’s monumental Archduke Trio Opus 97, one of his finest chamber works.

The four movements ranged from the nobility of the first with its interesting pizzicato section, the sprightly Scherzo, the tragic theme and variations of the third movement all rounded off with the brisk finale.

A fitting conclusion to a superb concert played with sensitivity, commitment and musicianship by this impressive team.

The top quality of the Music Society’s concerts continues which augurs well for the rest of the season.