A significant reverse 'sandwich' of music - that is to say contemporary works around classical rather than the reverse in case audience figures are adversely affected - saw a comfortably-sized audience show by their appreciation that, surprise, surprise, they enjoyed something new, something fresh. And, even, Britten.

And then, to find the composer of two of the works in their midst - well, what more can a festival provide?

Matthew Sharp's solo cello is really an extension of his mind and personality: Vivid, engaging, searching and, as he showed in Bach's Cello Suite, sometimes a bit racey.

His Bach for me was a touch too pacey, sometimes a little muddy.

But, Cello Concerto, by Paul Patterson, was a piece of explorative, innovative cello writing which left much to the performers.

And none failed their mission: David Curtis' conducting was sympathetic and bold when needed and Sharp revelled in the tonal opportunities and excelled in the free air of two cadenzas.

As if all that was not enough for one evening along came Allusions, for two violins and strings, another work by Patterson, the peach of the evening.

Cathy Leech and David Le Page embellished the energised, boundless enthusiasm of the piece with a free-spirited mix of musical interplay.

It was a piece commissioned by the orchestra and Patterson wrote it to celebrate his 60th birthday. It would serve well as a 21st birthday present, so youthful and vibrant is it.

Reg Burnard