JANINE is playing even better than before, judging from this superb performance.

The programme began with the eight Lyric Pieces op 12, by Grieg, which range from the gentle Arietta, through a waltz, Watchman's Song, a jolly Fairy Dance, Popular Melody, Norwegian Melody and light Autumn Leaf to the strong National Song, Janine bringing out the contrasts beautifully.

Then we were treated to a virtuoso performance of Beethoven's Pathetique Sonata, the attentive audience hanging on every note, particularly in the second movement. You could have heard a pin drop when this movement ended.

The next item was, for me, the highlight of the programme, because I love the music of Rachmaninov.

Firstly we heard the Prelude in D Major op 23 number 4, with its wonderful melodies, and then the more famous Prelude in G Minor op 23 number 5, with its sweeping passages, almost menacing at times. Rachmaninov is always difficult to play, but Janine was outstanding.

If the programme had ended there, I would have been content.

But we had more delights to come, including the Three Preludes by Gershwin. I particularly enjoy the second of these which is so lyrical, in fact it sounds as though it should have words.

New to me was an aptly named Reverie by York Bowen, when Janine's fingers seemingly wandered effortlessly over the keys. A really "dreamy" interlude.

The programme ended with Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. This is my least favourite of the named sonatas, but I enjoyed this performance, especially with such an expressive version of the gentle adagio.

This was a most impressive performance by one of the region's most talented pianists, whose sparkling personality shines through in her interpretation of the music. VJS