Our new season opened in the best way possible, with a smooth-as-silk performance by the Allegri Quartet, accompanied for two of the works by violist Graham Oppenheimer.

In a switch from the printed programme, the group opened with the String Quartet No. 3 by Alec Roth, a British composer championed by the Allegris. The work had strong echoes of American minimalism, with some complex rhythms and engaging melodies. In the interval discussions afterwards, "What a revelation that was!" was heard frequently, and all the Roth CDs on sale were quickly snapped up.

The other two works were viola quintets, the Mozart probably more often heard than the Brahms, and both were performed with real intensity and feeling. If the Allegris' young leader, Martyn Jackson, looked familiar, it may be because he also featured in our opening concert last year, with the Cavaleri Quartet. He clearly fits well in the Allegri Quartet, which looked and sounded vibrant, confident and utterly relevant in its 62nd year.

Our first night is often frantic with people queuing to renew their membership or join for the first time. So if you can, please use one of the payment methods listed here, and get your Season Ticket in advance.

If you would really prefer to pay on the night, please consider buying a single ticket at the door, then upgrading to a Season Ticket during the interval; it'll cost you just the same, and will be a little less rushed.

Anna Jackson is Concert Secretary, and responsible for selecting artists and programmes.

These are a few of her Favourite Things: Mozart; toast and honey; playing the clarinet; Alice through the Looking Glass; Richmond Garden Club; Father Ted; trail running; Richmondshire Orchestra; cycling holidays; family time; Killer Sudoku; Hamlet.

Of course we really hope you'll want a Season Ticket - but if you're specifically interested in the Allegri Quartet's concert on 24 September, there are tickets in stock at Richmond's Castle Hill Bookshop. You can still order online if you prefer, or buy tickets at the door on the night, subject to availability.