THE Sorrel Quartet, musicians of artistic expression and philosophic mind, delved deeply into Elgar's innermost soul in their magnificently performed programme.

The String Quartet in E minor, Opus 83 was constantly striving upwards and searching in the initial stages of the Allegro moderato, followed by the serenity of Piacevole (poco andante), with poignant melody and recondite counter-themes from second violin and cello; the re-strained final section, and first violin's held high notes were exemplary. Allegro molto embodied a more tempestuous mood.

David Owen Norris, who introduced the concert with relevant anecdotes, performed two pairs of Elgar's Impro-visation for Piano. Mr Owen Norris, having spent much time listening to these pieces, played them 'by ear'. They exhibited magnificent melodies, enchant-ing delicacy, magical chromatic harmonies and technical brilliance.

Mr Owen Norris joined the quartet for a sensational reading of Elgar's Piano Quintet in A minor, Opus 84. They moved with motion and energy through the Moderato. The intensely spiritual Adagio, with fervent viola, and the cello later, was inspired. The Allegro was passion on a grand scale: the piano exhilarating, and the quartet maintaining its off-beat timing to perfection.

This stimulating performance was accomplished awesomely.