THE Kopelman Quartet, a distinguished ensemble of virtuoso Russian musicians, reached a zenith as they delivered impeccable interpretations of their national composers Borodin, Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky.

String Quartet no.2 in D by the first, was a romantic reading with glorious melody being augmented by pizzicato during the opening allegro, agitation against the rolling' cello through the Scherzo, a transcendental understanding of Notturno, and a finale of exact precision.

The next composer's String Quartet no.8 in C was a stark contrast, as adversity and torment were described.

The dark soul-searching of Shostakovich was brought to bear as painful chords introduced and the first violin poised in mournful lament.

During this profound delivery we heard superb unison playing, sustained long held monotones, aggressive turbulence, and a glimpse of hope as the cello sang momentarily in most lovely melody.

The third, String Quartet no.3 in E flat minor, op.30, a work of diversity, continued to show the Kopelman's innate and meticulous ensemble.

The Kopelman Quartet's refined eloquence made a most fitting conclusion to MCC's successful 2006-7 season.

JILL HOPKINS