We had all been looking forward to the week with Sir Charles Mackerras performing the mainly Strauss programme with great anticipation. This week was to be followed by a CD recording of Strauss' opera, Ariadne auf Naxos and Le Bourgeouis Gentilhomme, also conducted by Sir Charles. Alas, due to ill health, Sir Charles had to pull out of the recordings, though thankfully he was still able to perform the concerts with us. He has handed over the reins of the recording to Sir Richard Armstrong, who will continue the project as planned.