Baroque Day, National Centre For Early Music, York

After studying the Baroque Concerto at college, I was very much looking forward to revisiting some of my favourite works from this period, and I was not disappointed.

The final event of Baroque Day was a highly entertaining, joyous concert, which celebrated some of the masters of Baroque Concerto forms, from Vivaldi and Corelli to Bach and Handel.

The Concerto for Strings in C major by Antonio Vivaldi made for an exciting, vibrant start to the programme: acting almost an overture, it proved to be a wonderful taster of things to come.

Telemann's Viola Concerto in G Major saw Compagnia d’Istrumenti member Rose Redgrave take centre stage. The ensemble provided a sensitive accompaniment throughout, but particularly in the Andante: producing a gorgeous swell of sound which supported and enhanced the soloist's own beautifully shaped and expressive phrases.

The final presto was taken at well judged tempo, with the soloist delivering a sparkling, precisely articulated final movement.

Arcangelo Corelli's Concerto Grosso in D major op.6 no 4 was a highlight and had a real sense of forward momentum and energy.

The baroque bow came into its own, enabling the ensemble to deliver the crisp articulation which is essential for a convincing rendition of these concerti grossi.

Bach's Brandenburg Concerto no. 3 in G brought the first half to a close with great rhythmic vitality, and clarity of texture.

Second half highlights included a rip-roaring performance of Handel's Concerto Grosso in G major op.6 no.1 characterised by articulation with plenty of bite. A shout out goes to the cellos for their gorgeous tone which really came to the fore in this piece.

Vivaldi's 'Winter' from The Four Seasons saw Compagnia d’Istrumenti member and leader Daniel Edgar on fine form, with an exciting, totally committed performance. The ensemble rose to the occasion, giving the soloist satisfyingly robust support. A fabulous way to end the concert, with no encore necessary.

This was an accomplished performance from the University Baroque Ensemble. Compagnia d’Istrumenti - the department's Associate Artists, who coach and perform with the Ensemble on a regular basis - should be congratulated on the high standard achieved by their students.

On the evidence of Baroque Day, there's some top-class music-making taking place at York, and I would strongly recommend a trip over there.