On Saturday evening, the Academy of St Olave’s presented music by Gluck and CPE Bach, alongside Mozart's Symphony No. 41 at St Olave’s Church.

Although the ‘Jupiter' is amongst the most popular Classical symphonies, the two earlier composers sit at the tantalising period before this, with Baroque traits still fading away. Music at the peripheries of periods can be hit and miss, but well-chosen works made this programme a definite hit.

Gluck's Intrada from Alceste and the ‘Danse des Champs-Élysées’ from Orfeo opened the programme. Both from the operatic repertoire for which he is most famous, this pairing provided an initial expressive grandeur typical of the period. The eighteenth century was indeed conjured by the Academy who played with poise and attention, the full string section particularly endearing.

CPE Bach's Symphony in D provided a marked contrast. The arresting opening saw the cellos take forceful charge, the first violins playing strident, fanfare-like repeated lines. This section was only the beginning of an explosive and energetic work performed with expertise but just the right degree of tension.

The second half brought the more familiar Mozart symphony. Played with relentless conviction, the first movement’s verve was maintained in the muted second, the more subdued music played with due subtlety. The final movement, a feisty presto, brought all sections of the orchestra together compellingly.

The entire concert showed the Academy at full strength. A meticulous attention to detail from conductor Alan George insured an assured performance by committed players.

Review by Martin Scheuregger