'Rite of Spring is not your everyday story of country folk. Stravinsky's ballet score sparked a riot at it's Paris premier. The scenario describes the pagan ceremonies of primitive tribes, climaxing in the sacrificial dance of a virgin.

Stravinsky clothed the action in some of his most exotic music. Unusual instruments include a bass trumpet, alto flute and high E flat clarinet. The ever changing pulse taxes both players and conductor.

And the augmented NSO rose to the challenge gladly in a weekend concert marking Derek Williams' 20th anniversary as musical director. Swinging from Debussyan mood painting to Bartokian violence, each scene was judiciously and graphically realised.

The evening began with a more romantic evocation of mythology. The emotional drift of Seigfried's Rhine Journey (from Wagner's Ring cycle) was richly observed. From off-stage, a solo horn conjured atmosphere.

With his first bars, guest soloist Dong-Suk Kang created his own enchantment in Sibelius's Violin Concerto. Technically and expressively, the orchestra went with him all the way. A packed house witnessed not only breathtaking skills but the desire to delve to the heart of the music.

Rite of Spring was followed by brief speeches and a festive encore. Long may Williams continue to share musical adventures with us and the orchestra.