The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra has moved back to the City Hall. Some people like it. Others don’t. I prefer the sound in the City Hall. It’s kinder to the strings. Take Brahms’ Violin Concerto, for example. We were treated to a very fine performance by David Grimal, a young star on his way up. One of the loveliest in the repertoire, the Brahms takes a superb technique for granted. Violinists are supposed to build on their technique and make music from the score. With the empathetic assistance of guest conductor Wolfram Christ, Grimal did just that. No flashy pyrotechnics, no huge ego, just real focus on the music.

Tchaikovsky’s too well-known Piano Concerto no 1 presents a real challenge to any pianist. What can you find to say that the audience hasn’t heard before? Russian pianist Margarita Shevchenko tried hard, but it took a while for her, conductor Meir Minsky and the orchestra to settle down. The slow movement was much more enjoyable and Shevchenko’s interpretation was decidedly beguiling.