Renowned pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboin said: The purest form of music-making is chamber music, because it forces players into a give and take which is absolutely essential musically. Chamber music also requires that the players listen to one another…a wonderful, important experience.

Chamber music is simply classical musical composed for small numbers of instruments. Originating in the Italian renaissance, musica da camera was used to distinguish music heard in private rooms from either church or folk music. We’ve moved from private rooms to concert halls, but the essence remains: a musical conversation in which the audience takes a vital part.

Chamber music is talked about as the highest form of western art music. That makes it seem intimidating. It doesn't really require specialist knowledge; it's just good listening in a classical style. And in a perfect setting: up close and personal; good acoustics, and just 500 seats in 18 rows. Intimate, conversational - and cookies at intermission.