THERE And Back Again, presented by Peter Osborne, was a real surprise. The title had indicated a journey of some kind, but Mr Osborne surprised members at the start by saying that this is the alternative title to The Hobbit.

The story of Bilbo Baggins and his travels,which ultimately led him home again to his beloved Shire, reminded Mr Osborne of the travels of Antonin Dvorak, who left home for America, but was glad to get back to Bohemia.

The programme, therefore, comprised the music of Dvorak, interspersed with details of the composer's life and travels.

Two Slavonic dances were heard in their original format - piano duets, there was music from string quartets, and the Quando Corpus Morietus from Stabat Mater.

The audience heard Dovarak's first violin concerto to Joachin, and Mr Osborne chose the scherzo third movement from the sixth symphony - simply because he likes it.

The last movement of Dvorak's eighth (Bohemian) symphony was heard played by the Halle Orchestra conducted by Sir John Barbirolli.

In 1892, Dvorak was invited to New York to the National Conservatory of Music, and American music began to reflect in his compositions.

Of course, his most famous work is probably the ninth symphony - From The New World. A recording of the third movement of this wonderful work was played, featuring the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Geoffrey Simon.

A sonatina for violin and piano was played and the final movement of the cello concerto played by Paul Torteller.

The programme ended with the Invocation To The Moon from Rusalka, sung by Renee Fleming.

For further details of society events, contact vice-chairman Von Stewart on 01562 755990, or visit the website for details of events until the end of the year at www.thefrms.co.uk/kidd.htm.

l On Friday, April 20, Federation of Recorded Music Societies chairman John Davies will present a programme of recorded music entitled 300 Years Of Russian Music.

This will be at Holy Innocents community centre, Kidderminster, starting at 7.30pm. Visitors will be welcome.

There will be a nominal admission charge, to include interval tea/coffee and biscuits.

For further details of this or any other society event, contact vice-chairman Von Stewart on 01562 755990, or visit the website for details of events until the end of the year at www.thefrms.co.uk /kidd.htm Von Stewart