Beethoven always wore his heart on his sleeve, so it was appropriate that the 89th season of the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra opened with a concert dedicated to his work.

Conductor Barry Wordsworth delivered a heartfelt message of thanks to the audience for their support through the orchestra’s recent financial crisis.

Then it was straight into the dramatic opening chord of Overture, Leonora No 3. The study of love and liberation was followed by the grandeur of Beethoven’s final piano concerto: No 5 in E Flat (Emperor). Written amid the clamour of war and the personal tragedy of Beethoven’s encroaching deafness, this passionate piece was played by soloist Jayson Gillham.

The handsome young Australian presented an elegant, calm presence at the keyboard of the beautiful Steinway and was visibly touched by the prolonged applause for his understated yet accomplished performance.

The afternoon ended with the celebration of nature that is the Pastoral Symphony. As the musical thunderstorm passed and the final notes of the shepherd’s song of thanks died away, it was clear that Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra were back on top form.

They have weathered the storm and, stepping into the late autumn sunlight, we all had much to be thankful for.