Distinguished professionalism was the hallmark of this supreme recital.

Using his entire spectrum of vocal colour and range, baritone Sir Thomas had a cordial and sincere platform presence endeared him to his audience.

Beethoven's song cycle An die ferne Geliebte was a profound and beautiful consummation of this continuous piece, each song linked by a piano episode. Dramatic power and artistry expressed the torment of Tranen ohne Zahl (Never-ending tears'); skilful vocal control produced finely poised notes on Sich bewusst (Your longing). The closing stanzas, repeated and echoed by pianist Malcolm Martineu as the music became impassioned, produced an exhilarating finish.

Other Beethoven songs were performed in superlative style, too. Sir Thomas encouraged and coaxed in Hoffnung (Hope), and became impatient rhythmically for Perche, perche non viene? (Why, why does she not come?). Busslied (Song of Atonement), an emotional outpouring, contained many poignant moments, notably Du Gott . . . Geduld (God of patience), and the concluding meiner Seele an (My soul) where the pianist intensified the pathos.

Martineau's connoisseurship of pianism was paramount in the Beethoven works and his partnership with Sir Thomas was insightful and sympathetic.

By way of a complete change, Songs My Father Taught Me was a selection of well-known ballads. Sir Thomas and Martineau elevated them and emphasized the words and beauty therein. Generously, two encores were given.

Ian Bostridge will give the final recital in this series on April 8.

Jill Hopkins