Apparently the organiser of this spectacular celebration of woodwind orchestration began his conductor’s career at the ripe old age of 12. It’s quite remarkable that Maxim Emelyanychev, who splits his workload between conducting the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra and leading the period ensemble Il Pomo d’Oro, still found a space in his diary to assemble this group of stunning SCO wind principals.

Act one of a two-part programme kicks off with a series of works by composer Francis Poulenc, whose chamber music is a rich mix of melancholy, lyricism and playfulness. Apparently these sonatas were written in the twilight of the writer’s life, where he was looking back with some regrets while maintaining his trademark cheeky wit.

Stand-out moment from this section features Sonata for Oboe and Piano, where an animated Clara Schweinberger swoops and weaves around a busy score, pushing her instrument to the limits of its range, while Maxim’s piano emphasises that scurrying, underlying unease. As the end approaches the piece drops to a single, lonesome note, leaving a residue of melancholy hovering in the room.

The second half gathers the whole ensemble on stage to explore the works of Francaix and Ravel. These pieces are at once joyful and complex, invoking the air of a French bistro while drawing some of the finest performances from all musicians. The playfulness of some passages encourages a joshing wit, as mischievous looks bounce around the stage, pushing each musician to outdo their teammates while relishing the composer’s flourishes.

Considering the complexities and shifts of tone within these playful yet melancholy works – plus the fact that the show was being recorded for Radio Three – any nerves expected from the performers simply evaporated as the show progressed. As the musicians stood shoulder to shoulder with an obvious glee at the standard of the work, they also energised the audience and brought real excitement to the room. What a joy to behold a group of quality musicians at the top of their game, swooping and diving their way through these intense and complex arrangements with the air of a spirited party of mates, having great fun.

With thanks to Malcolm McGonigle for this review.