SIX weeks to go and this warm-up to the BSO’s Meyrick Park party was roundly applauded by a full house. Supported by Bournemouth Borough Council, the group of mayoral guests was warmly welcomed by presenter Petroc Trelawny.

Unfortunately the good intention of having Mozart’s ‘Coronation’ Piano Concerto (No26) in performance by Piers Lane was set aside due to his indisposition. Flying in from Geneva, his place was taken by David Greilsammer playing Mozart’s Concerto No9. In a sparkling account Greilsammer took the unusual step of illuminating all three movements with his own fine cadenzas.

With Rui Pinheiro on the podium we were assured well-focused readings, the band responding with a full-coloured performance of Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary. Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks also made an impressive contribution to the celebrations, especially from the wind choir.

Walton’s Coronation March Crown Imperial builds upon Elgar’s template and arguably outshines in orchestral opulence. I love Grainger’s quirky humour and greatly appreciated Wood’s superb arrangement of Handel in the Strand. ‘Old Timber’s’ arrangements included his own Fantasia on British Sea Songs, with Jesper Svedberg and Charles Mutter giving excellent solos.

This jamboree was duty-bound to finish with two of Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance Marches; No4 is the usual second choice, and No1, of course, accompanied by some impromptu singing.