The Scottish Ensemble

Published on Friday 8 February 2008 15:45

The Scottish Ensemble ****

Queen's Hall, Edinburgh, Thursday

SHIRTS (on stage at least) were untucked and collars were most definitely loosened, but it is always foolish to write off the Scottish Ensemble's casual and relaxed approach to classical music as 'lite', or indeed lacking bite. Sure, this evening the audience were first offered Stravinsky's Concerto in D, then Jean Francaix's Octuor, which is a light and airy work with a central movement jazzy enough to evoke Gershwin, but that was merely a cleverly staged appetiser.

However, the Ensemble's attack is always present and, led by the formidable Jonathan Morton on violin, the group are consistently in impressive unison. Which came in handy when they threw themselves at the main event of the evening – a new commission, Eternity's Sunrise, composed by Steve Martland. Martland, who has recorded work for Factory Records and worked alongside the likes of Spiritualised, is a contemporary composer who works outwith the classical music establishment – a perfect match then for the Ensemble's long-running investment in new commissions and educational projects for kids.

Eternity's Sunrise came out fighting from the very first note, performed loud and fast and with vigour. Morton and the Ensemble's second violin, Ning Kam, led the strings through rhythmic patterns, tensions and euphoric moments of relief, while a silent undercurrent of a chemical beat ran alongside.

A special mention has to go to guest clarinettist Michael Collins for his performance of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto which, thanks to his expressive style and engagement with the audience, was endearing, impressive and a suitably showy end to proceedings.

• The Scottish Ensemble perform the same programme at Eden Court, Inverness (01463 234 234), today, 4.30pm and Queen's Cross Church, Aberdeen (01224 644742), tomorrow, 7.30pm.scottishensemble.co.uk