Famous scientists

Strathearn Community Library On Saturday 25, as part of the Strathearn Festival of Science, storyteller and scientist Pauline Cordiner will share her tales and experiences of famous scientists at Strathearn Community Library in Crieff.

The free sessions with Pauline are at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Book your place on the day. Suitable for ages 3 to 103!

The February classical programme at Perth Concert Hall often contains an exceptional weekend. And this year saw a three-concert run, with one in St John’s Kirk, by Alasdair Beatson and the Doric String Quartet.

As a pianist, Alasdair used to have the epithet Perth-born applied, his demonstrated ability now can call him internationally acclaimed.

An extra draw was the presence of so many Piano Quintets and the Friday evening had three: by Fauré, Thomas Adès and Elgar.

In the Fauré Quintet No1 all five musicians showed their oneness with this elusive work. From its rippling start they had the delicate atmosphere just right.

Alasdair introduced the Thomas Adès Quintet saying: “Buckle your seatbelts for a really exciting ride.” He then gave details which allowed the audience to make the most of this powerful 20-minute piece.

Finally came the master performance of the evening: Elgar’s Piano Quintet. Playing here