Meanwhile, two rows in front of me, sat the star of the film, 97 years young composer, Elliott Carter, awaiting performances of his solo and duet compositions.

Flautist and friend, Robert Aitken, stepped up first, playing "Scrivo In Vento" — a piece based on a poem by Petrarch — in which the contrasting pitches suggested the changeable nature of the poem.

The mournful "Riconoscenza" was given an excellent interpretation as violinist Fujiko Imajishi next played with focus and precision, her sforzando bowing and precise articulation, impressive.

"Steep Steps", as interpreted by Virgil Blackwell on bass clarinet, was to lead us through several melodic episodes and end with a single note hanging.

Elliott Carter's music distinguishes itself in its endings, for instead of a dramatic crash and bang, his pieces stop smoothly, or the last phrase is softly ironic, or there is a single note left hanging in the air. His pieces end subtly, and with individuality.