Performer: Sir James Galway

Sir James Galway supported by the Zurich Chamber Orchestra, performs flawless Mozart flute concerto in D. Sir James Galway and Lady Jeanne Galway also delivers delightful Cimarosa in a historic performance. 

Oxford Town Hall was certainly decked with boughs of holly for last night’s Christmas special. Featuring the twelve-piece Orchestra of St John’s and a carol-singing choir, the scene was set for a cosy evening away from the cold and drizzle outside. Maybe the best way to describe this concert is by comparing it to a festive CD.

It is a cliché in music commentary to say that youth orchestras bring vitality, fearlessness and chutzpah to the programmes that they play. But as with most clichés, it does appear to be based in truth, and that is perhaps one reason why the BBC Proms continue to give such support to young players as well as young composers.