He took up the idea with a vengeance on Saturday giving us a virtual masterclass on Mozart and Mahler and the workings of the violin, ancient and modern, whilst even the classy soloist, Australian born soprano Gillian Ramm, was persuaded to introduce her own pieces. We learned too how the orchestra is receiving coaching from the world renowned Hanover Band.

Their words added greatly to an evening which surely goes down as one of the most inspiring that Horsham Symphony Orchestra have yet produced.

It began with a very confident performance of Mozart's Don Giovanni overture, evoking all the drama of that great opera, swiftly followed by an aria from the same opera performed by the glamorous and highly competent Miss Ramm.

This was followed by two more beautifully sung Mozart arias, a rarely heard love song from Zaide and a more striking piece from Cosi fan tutte in which Miss Ramm was at her most expressive.

It is difficult to imagine anything able to eclipse Mozart. However, Mahler's Symphony No.4 in G, which took up the second half, did just that. The conductor talked of Mahler being "long, dull and depressing" but HSO's terrific performance of this intricate and difficult piece proved to be a most uplifting experience.

Drawn from a collection of poems about peasantry, love, the military and faith, this hour long adventure is full of enchanting and mystical sounds. The kaleidoscopic first movement was at times electrifying and for me the highlight of the evening. The delightful second movement was charmingly melodic whilst the long third movement was simply spellbinding.

The final movement depicted a child's version of heaven with Gilliam Ramm joining the orchestra for a gentle song that evolved into a peaceful and exquisite finish.

The Mahler was first performed in 1901 and was being heard at The Capitol for the very first time, a real treat for all who were privileged to be there. A triumph for all concerned.

David Briffett