Gerald Place tenor/reader/renaissance instruments Dorothy Linell lute/theorbo

‘Each section was immaculately planned and ran almost seamlessly as a cameo of readings, songs and instrumental solos and duets. The small church proved an intimate setting, and the performers’ manner of presenting the programme so easy-going that you felt you were in the company of friends at an informal gathering.’

This is taken from a report of the recent Frome Festival and it neatly sums up the style and scope of our programming. Carefully-researched material is presented in a way which allows it to appeal both to specialist audiences and, as is often the case, to those unfamiliar with this repertoire. The variety of instrumentation and remarkable versatility is always a point of interest, and allows each programme to be very much more than a mere song recital.

Sample Programme:

The Food of Love: An inspired sideways look at Shakespeare through the original songs and dances, and readings on music from the plays. The programme also includes later settings by Humfrey and Purcell, and a few surprises.
Where is thy Sting? The songs of John Dowland and the poetry of Edmund Spenser, the outstanding composer and poet of their age, who were described by Shakespeare as ‘the sister and the brother’.

Education:

Both performers are experienced teachers and aim to use music and period instruments to enrich pupils’ understanding of history. A Shakespeare workshop is offered for GCSE and A level candidates and a more general introduction to the Tudors for younger children

Recordings:

The Food of Love (Cantoris)
Recording of Shakespeare Songs for Naxos (June 07)
Demo CD available

Performances:

10 Mar 07 Ackworth Concert Club
25 Apr 07 Wisbech Concert Club
14 Nov 07 Preston Music Club

Contact:

Andrew Phillips, Chameleon Arts,
32 St Michael’s Road

Sandhurst, Berkshire GU47 8HE

Tel: 0845 644 5530
Fax: 01252 871517

Email: office@chameleon-arts.co.uk
Website: www.chameleon-arts.co.uk