Julia Raeburn singer/recorders/percussion Dawn Johnston lute/baroque guitar/theorbo Guest: Martin Pope lute/theorbo/renaissance brass

Our name comes from the title of Robert Jones’ 5th Book of Ayres 1610. We specialise in themed programmes of the Renaissance/Baroque repertoire (British/European), eg Shakespeare and Love!, In an English Country Garden, Let there be Light!, At her Majesty’s Pleasure. Our lively approach with spoken introductions /readings contemporary with the music itself, (eg from Pepys’ diary or Queen Elizabeth I’s own pithy comments on Marriage/Matters of State) make our concerts well-loved by the concert newcomer and early-music aficionado alike.

‘From the first moment of their beautiful and imaginative concert at historic Ham House, I knew The Muses Gardin were the perfect duo to perform at Morrisfont Abbey.’ Mottisfont Abbey

‘Julia’s voice is a quality instrument, giving her the flexibility to express a wide gamut of emotions. The comedy she put into “Oh no John” was memorable.’ Lyndhurst Music Society

‘Dawn’s love for the music she was playing illuminated her performance and produced moments or rare enchantment.’ Lyndhurst Music Society

Sample Programme:

Come Ashore Merry Mates!: A musical journey, principally through the 16th and 17th centuries, by River, Sea and Floods of tears! ...composers from Pilkington to Purcell …a Welsh setting of “By the Waters of Babylon”…evocative settings of “Ave Maris Stella” …salty sailors’ songs and readings…

Education:

We present informal workshops for children, successfully incorporating “classroom” instruments, enabling children to participate and enter the spirit of 16th and 17th century music.

Recordings:

Demo CD available and soundclips on website.
Rivers of Fire and Tears of Flame (exploring vibrant imagery in the Lute song and beyond)

Performances:

Jul 07 Greys Court (NT) Henley
Oct 07 Christchurch (Woking Borough Council)
Nov 07 Kelly College Concert Society

Contact:

Julia Raeburn, 8 Skeena Hill,
Southfields, London SW18 5PL

Tel: 020 8788 7582
Mobile: 07798 863 967

Email: musesgardin@aol.com
Website: www.themusesgardin.co.uk