In the parish where metaphysical poet George Herbert was Rector towards the end of his life, we present a programme of songs to the lute based around settings of some of his poetry, together with songs associated with his extended family based at nearby Wilton House. These have texts by Mary Herbert and her brother Philip Sidney, their close associate John Donne, and Mary's son William Herbert, the Earl of Pembrokeshire. Lute solos from the lute book of George's brother Edward, Lord Herbert of Cherbury are also included. There will also be readings of George's poetry by Sonia Woolley.
Musicke in the Ayre was formed by Din Ghani in 2010, and since then have given over 100 concerts of music from the 16th and 17th centuries for voice(s) with lute (or related period instruments) across the UK and abroad. Tthey have developed a reputation over recent years for carefully researched and well crafted programmes designed around highly specific topics, and this one has been a particularly interesting challenge.
Based in London, Salisbury native Sophia Brumfitt has performed a wide range of repertoire with a number of leading groups, and in 2014 featured in a BBC4 series on renaissance art. Since joining Musicke in the Ayre two years ago, she has given solo recitals with Din in the National Portrait Gallery, the Foundling Museum, St Paul's Covent Garden and elsewhere. Since taking up the lute in 1975, Din Ghani specialized in lute song in the last decade, leading to the formation of Musicke in the Ayre. He also began making his own instruments in 2003, and will use one of these in this concert.
Although entry to the concert is free, there is a retiring collection, and advance booking will assist the organisers in estimating numbers: please ring 01722 238301 or 07815 107009.