AUTUMN CONCERTS

Tincleton Gallery, the Old School House, Tincleton

WHEN a small Dorset village location is able to offer live performances by internationally acclaimed musicians, it is clear that there must be something special about it.

Two concerts given by piano virtuoso Angela Brownridge of both classical and jazz music were a fine example of the unique and generous hospitality given by Tincleton Gallery owner Joan Burdett-Coutts to music lovers who attended the stunning performances in this unique and colourful setting.

A concert of solo pieces in An Evening With Debussy set the tone during the first of the weekend treats which was followed on the next day by Two Sides of the Piano in which Angela Brownridge played a selection of some of Chopin’s most famous compositions along with jaw-dropping renderings of arrangements of George Gershwin’s jazz and blues music.

In the warm and intimate atmosphere of the former school hall, now a performance area and contemporary art gallery, the sensitive yet assertive style of the pianist blended beautifully together as she played well loved classical pieces such as Chopin’s Minute Waltz while later taking the audience to New York and Gershwin’s Fascinatin’ Rhythm and Rhapsody in Blue, an amazing skill by this highly respected English pianist.

And an additional surprise bonus for the audience were Angela’s fascinating anecdotes about the composers and their work which added to the evening’s friendly atmosphere in this superb rural setting.

Further weekend concerts at the venue will be taking place during the next few months which will feature professional musicians including Duncan Honeybourne and John Law, definitely treats not to be missed.

MARION COX