Sir Charles and the SCO impress

Sir Charles Mackerras made his 87th appearance at the Edinburgh International Festival on Wednesday the 20th August conducting the Scottish Chamber Orchestra in a sell-out concert at the Usher Hall. "Whenever Mackerras appears with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra he produces magical alchemy, and this was present in abundance in Mozart's Symphony No 40 in G minor" (The Scotsman). The symphony, which was included in ‘Mozart Symphonies 38 - 41', was as thrilling as expected - fresh and vibrant.

The performance also marked the retirement of the renowned pianist, Alfred Brendel. Joining the SCO and Mackerras Brendel performed Mozart's Piano Concerto in C minor. His "seamless touch and intense lyricism" added to the poignancy of the performance - a truly memorable evening.

In addition to the outstanding performance, Sir Charles Mackerras had further reason to celebrate; to a standing ovation it was announced that the conductor was to become honorary president of the International Festival Society. A perfect way to mark the conductor's hugely impressive 87th appearance.