SINFONIA Viva's New Year's Eve Concert is now well-established as one of Nottingham's best-loved festive traditions.
The formula of Viennese waltzes in the second half plus themed pieces in the first proved just as successful this year as in the past.
There was a new conductor this year and Timothy Redmond established an easy, friendly rapport in his chats with the audience – as well as inspiring his forces to inject fresh energy into a familiar repertoire.
The orchestra has established an enviable reputation for punching well above their weight, as can be seen from their adventurous decision to fight Round One against Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries.
This year's theme was Land Of The Midnight Sun, a good excuse not only to play some popular Grieg and Sibelius but to introduce one of Danish composer Carl Nielsen's most delightful compositions.
The overture to his opera Masquerade is full of wit, ebullience and romantic charm, making it an ideal choice for the occasion.
The soloist in Grieg's Piano Concerto was Ian Buckle, who brought a spirit of high drama to the opening movement whilst clearly revelling in the lively dance rhythms of the finale.
For all its lush melodies and popular appeal, Grieg's concerto makes ferocious technical demands of its performers.
Ian Buckle's virtuosity made light work of them all.
Sinfonia Viva were on effervescent form in the concluding Strauss dances, leaving the audience in no doubt that the New Year had once again been celebrated in style.
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