It was parky outside on Friday evening. But there was warmth aplenty inside St Peter’s, the warmth of reunion. Like the first cuckoo in spring, the Ryedale Festival launch concert brought the promise of sunnier days ahead: 42 events in July, no less.

The Sacconis are not perhaps as well known in the northeast of England as elsewhere in Europe. But they have been around since 2001, and it shows. In Bridge, Mozart and Dvorak alike, their quiet composure was captivating.

The 25-year-old Bridge’s three Novelletten (1904) were beautifully turned here, with solo viola and cello bouncing along on featherbed accompaniments, and the composer’s harmonic adventures gently pointed.

Mozart’s 16th quartet, K.428 in E flat, was truly revealing. Barely exceeding mezzo forte throughout, the Sacconis enticed us into their confidence. In an exceptionally soft slow movement, they conjured a gossamer dream. A springy minuet and trio was ideally contrasted by the final rondo, where Mozart’s clever bridges back to the theme were teasingly presented.

After such thoughtful work, the players let their hair down in Dvorak’s ‘American’ quartet, No 12 in E, their enjoyment palpable. But ensemble remained as tight-meshed as ever. Here again their communication with each other was a joy to witness and infectious to hear. Musical intimacy does not get better than this. It generates warmth, too.

Ryedale Festival runs July 11 to 27. www.ryedalefestival.com