SPRING arrived on Wednesday as 120 members of York University Orchestra performed Stravinsky with jaw-dropping verve.

Did not the very goddess of Thunder herself play in the percussion back four? The 'Rites' were part of a set that included Neilson's Prelude to Saul and David and Elgar's sublime Cello Concerto played with passion and command by music student Lisa Jacques.

This stunning, inspirational orchestra should be seen and heard by the school children of York. Maybe even on Children In Need day when any proceeds could go to charity? What do you think?

Brian McCusker

St Oswald's Road, York.

Updated: 12:12 Saturday, March 16, 2002