Music and lyrics

SIR – I was delighted to read that Pam Barton (Letters, November 25) enjoys the performances of the London Mozart Players, in particular because the musicians talk to the audience.

We have been encouraging this practice at recitals at Raynham Hall since 2013, and find that it brings the barrier down between performer and audience to the extent that concert-goers never hesitate in approaching the musicians afterwards to talk about the music and their instruments. It does indeed feel like a private and intimate recital for family and friends.

We also limit performance time to just over one hour without an interval, which keeps the audience totally engaged. Many concerts are too long. Who hasn’t thought about leaving after the interval, however much they love music?

The best performances are short, beautiful – and leave the audience wanting more. Marchioness Townshend

Fakenham, Norfolk