Blenheim Palace made a fittingly grand setting for the return to the stage of the newly knighted Van Morrison’s last Thursday night.

But of course, Sir Van being Van, no recognition of performing in so special a place as Blenheim’s Great Court – or indeed any greeting at all for the audience at the inaugural night of the palace’s Nocturne season of concerts – was forthcoming.

The Belfast troubador’s knighthood was clearly for services to music rather than chat shows. And while his long-term fans – as with Dylan admirers – accept his sullenness as seriousness, you do wonder if he realises how his reluctance to speak alienates those new to his shows, or simply out to enjoy music on a balmy summer’s evening.

Happily, the Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter was charm itself. Recognising that the palace and appreciative crowd deserved something special, the Californian delivered a suitably cool sophisticated set drawing heavily on his award winning Liquid Spirit album, filling the big stage, while able to create the intimacy of Ronnie Scott’s club on emotionally charged numbers such as Water Under Bridges.

Sir Van began his set in a similar jazz vein, playing the saxophone. Numbers like Days Like This, Precious Time and Sometimes We Cry all underlined what a superb and versatile band he has again put together. But Jackie Wilson was the one that brought the smiles with Brown Eyed Girl bringing many to their feet.

With Sir Van having recently recorded an album of duets, it looked a good bet that he would be joined on stage by Porter, with Moondance an obvious choice. But the opportunity was missed although an extended version of that classic was still an undoubted highlight. A glorious Gloria brought the night to an end, with Van departing the stage – requesting a hand for his band, who played powerfully on.

While it is true the joy is in Van Morrison’s music and the warmth and wisdom in which he bares his heart and reveals his spiritual journey. But it is a shame that Belfast’s new knight still does not see bidding us “Goodnight and thank you for coming” as part of his performing duties.