Matthew Barley - Stroud Subscription Rooms - Thursday, November 9.

MORE musicians should think like cellist Matthew Barley.

His current month-long tour On The Road aims to dissolve the mystique surrounding music labelled 'classical' and encourage people to appreciate it simply as music.

The programme is beautifully conceived, removing barriers between different musical genres to provide an accessible, quirky recital.

Mixing everything from Gregorian chant to electronic improvisation during his performance, Barley provided an exhilaratingly original experience.

Beginning with an explanation of the origins of early forms of music, he opened with a moving and calming improvisation influenced by Syrian folk music and Gregorian chant.

It showcased both his technical ability and his ability to give 'traditional' music modern appeal.

His accomplished performance of JS Bach's Suite No. 3 in C again revealed the strength with which Barley plays while conveying the intelligence and musical layering for which Bach is known.

It was extremely well received by even the youngest members of an enthralled audience.

The second half of the performance offered a more personal, unusual experience.

Accompanied by a series of pre-recorded electronic arrangements, he performed another improvised arrangement, creating a haunting, moving piece revealing musical passion and the ability to judge the mood in the hall.

The appeal of Barley's music lies in his skill and the widening of the instrument's scope but also his ability to communicate with a varied audience, the breadth of musical genres his work sweeps through ensures that anyone can take something from his performances. I left uplifted.

Rebecca Conway.