TWO very substantial works of the chamber music genre were played by the Piatti Quartet, Charlotte Scott - first violin, Michael Trainor - second violin, David Wigram - viola and Jessie Ann Richardson - cello at the final concert of the 2011-2012 season. Beethoven’s "String Quartet No 15 in A minor Op 132" was composed in 1825 just two years before his death during frequent bouts of ill health. The opening movement was approached with passion, the soaring themes carefully delineated. The allegro, including a bagpipe like section, was sweepingly played almost with an air of nonchalance. The core of the piece, the adagio, headed a "Sacred Song of thanksgiving from one who is recovered, to the Godhead", received such rapt concentration that the audience seemed to be holding its breath. The joyful march which followed came as a happy release leading to the final allegro attacked with clarity and great precision.

The second half featured the popular and well loved Schubert "String Quartet No 14 in D minor, D810", better known as "Death and the Maiden". Composed in 1824 but never performed publicly during the composer’s tragically short lifetime it has since been recognised as a masterpiece. The opening allegro showed smooth interplay between the artists, the variations in the andante were played with sensitivity and affection, the short but technically difficult scherzo with great assurance and the finale was satisfyingly trenchant. The youthful Piatti Quartet, on this evidence, will continue to make its mark in a very competitive field. A successful future would seem assured.

The opening concert of Chipping Sodbury Music Society’s 65th Season, on 9 October 2012, will be given by James Turnbull - oboe, and Claire Jones - harp. James last performed here in April 2009 and will be making a welcome return, partnered this time by Claire who is the former Royal Harpist to HRH the Prince of Wales. Their recital will be entitled "From Britten to Berkeley and Bach" a range of works that will exemplify the unique blend of the oboe and harp through a variety of different styles and periods of music.