For classical music lovers in Oxford, a performance by the city's orchestra on Valentine's Day sounded like a perfect way to spend the evening. The sheldonian theatre is a beautiful venue, an elegant and romantic setting. It was, therefore, slightly disappointing that some logistical issues arose during the night. The front row of the seats had not been reserved, so some of the audience were made to move in between the pieces. The violinists obviously had no place to store their belongings, as giant black handbags sat on the floor between the musicians, which gave quite an unprofessional appearance.

The first piece, Bach's Concerto for Oboe d'Amore was excellent, with a fluid and competent performance by Timothy Watts. Sadly, the second piece, Romanze from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik is so overused, that it is hard to listen to without thinking of paint adverts or CDs of romantic music from garage forecourts. This was a common problem with most of the programme choices - the music chosen seemed to represent a pleasant, idealised version of love; but love should have fire, energy and passion, rather than just be nice! This was definitely missing from the evening. Pachelbel's Canon continued in this agreeable yet uncommitted manner - a gigue is a type of dance, but the music was played slowly, without much real energy.

In playing Vivaldi's concerto in A minor the ensemble came alive again, with a lot of interaction between the two soloists, and an obvious real enjoyment in performing which shone through. Barber's Adagio for Strings is a truly beautiful piece of music, but again, the music was treated so reverently, that although the dynamic increased, the music never quite seemed to reach the roaring crescendo I would have hoped for.

Zipoli's Adagio was performed well, but the ensemble really seemed to be most at home playing the last two pieces, both by Elgar. The Serenade for Strings in E minor and the Salut d'Amour were both good choices for the evening, and the ensemble seemed happier with the music also, playing with enthusiasm and life.

Overall, the music was technically excellent and pitch perfect, and it was a pleasant, nice evening, just perhaps not that passionate.

J. Bellingham