WITHIN five years of their formation the Benyounes Quartet has established a fine reputation and at their first visit to the BCMS it was easy to appreciate why.

Their youthful vitality allied to enormous artistic talents was clear throughout this concert and never more so than in the masterpiece that is Schubert’s String Quintet in C, opus 163 D956. Joined by a second cellist, David Edmonds, the Benyounes members; Zara Benyounes and Emily Holland, violins, Adam Newman, viola and Kim Vaughan, cello tuned in a performance of extraordinary depth and cogency.

Their vibrant fortes and the subtleties of each instrument lent a thrill to the first movement and they brought exquisite sensitivity to the serenity of the Adagio.

Capturing the rustic ambience of the Scherzo was an absolute joy to the ear, with the central andante intensely focused. The finale’s lilting Viennese theme built upon an element of cheerful vehemence to conclude a fabulous performance.

Beethoven’s String Quartet Opus 18/1 was no less superbly played; the second movement pregnant with emotion, relieved by the lighthearted Scherzo and a dexterous finale.

Three Divertimenti by Britten, an early work, opened with glissandi and offering a ‘sweet and sour’ experience, the last piece being a robust tarantella with remarkable guitar effects convincingly accomplished.