A SMALL but appreciative audience enjoyed this concert yesterday afternoon.

New Century Strings -- an ensemble composed of mainly young musicians -- played with a maturity which reflected much practice and attention to technique.

In Elgar's Introduction and Allegro op 47 for string and string quartet they were on top form and were strong in their responses to the Bridge String Quartet.

The influence of leader Gerald Hopkin is obvious and the ensemble is developing into an excellent team where musicianship combines with sensitivity.

Elgar's dramatic and lyrical work was beautifully played and what was particularly impressive was the enjoyment and dedication the young musicians gave to their work.

The Bridge String Quartet is composed of Caroline Balding (violin); Catherine Schofield (violin); Michael Schofield (viola) and Lucy Wilding (cello).

They brought a professionalism to Haydn's Quartet op.55 no 1 in A and executed the four movements with a lightness of touch which brought out the different shades of feeling. They were particularly effective in the Finale, Vivace.

The quartet brought the afternoon's offering to a close with Mozart's Quartet K589 in B Flat.

Again the interplay among the players was striking and the attention to detail impressive.

This was was an afternoon of music, which showed how effectively young musicians can play alongside their more experienced colleagues to great effect.

Doreen Crowther