CLASSICAL sounds of the 17th and 18th century will come to life at Askham Hall’s Bank Barn on Sunday, September 15, 2019, with an evening of harpsichord and baroque violin music.

Husband and wife Katharine May and Michael Sanderson, who perform as Eden Baroque, are to hold the event in the historic oak-beamed setting at 5pm.

Their performance will feature pieces composers including Purcell, Dowland, Lawes, Lanier and Arne, accompanied by contemporary readings.

Katharine studied at the Royal College of Music and is an accomplished harpsichord player. Michael previously sang in the renowned choir at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, and specialises in the baroque violin.

Now based in Great Salkeld, the couple moved to Cumbria two years ago and set up Eden Valley Music to perform, give music lessons, run courses in chamber music and work with small vocal groups.

Katharine said: "We are passionate about the Cumbrian landscape, which is an inspirational source of creativity and provides the perfect backdrop to showcase some landmark classical pieces.

"Askham Hall’s historic Bank Barn is a unique venue and we are looking forward to making the most of the building’s special acoustics to help bring one of the richest and most diverse periods in music to life for a local audience.”

Owner of Askham Hall, Charles Lowther, said: “We are excited to bring another classical music event to Cumbria. We think this concert will appeal to both devoted classical music buffs as well as anyone wanting a gentle introduction to the classics.”

Meanwhile, Askham Hall’s now annual Classical Music Weekend will return for its fifth year in February 2020, with international pianist Noam Greenberg and the Castilian String Quartet just confirmed for the line-up.

For tickets for Eden Baroque, call 01931-712350 or email enquiries@askhamhall.co.uk