As part of the appeal to raise funds to rebuild the organ in St Bart's, which celebrates its 149th birthday this year, the church is putting on a weekend of events to celebrate the rich and varied musical life of the parish on April 25th and 26th.
Organist Philip Underwood said "The Spring Festival is intended to be a high profile 'public' launch for the Oscar the Organ Appeal.
"At the same time the Spring Festival is intended to engage the local community in enjoying a wide variety of music making by performers of all ages. I think the programme shows our commitment particularly to encouraging young performers at the start of their careers as well as talented youth groups."
The Spring Festival will kick off on Saturday 25th April with a performance from the Kinder Youth Choir, who have established themselves as one of the UK's foremost children's choral organisations since their formation in 1991.
On Sunday 26th April, Project Jam Sandwich, a dynamic quintet of award-winning musicians, will "jam up a storm of fusion folk explosion from around the world", starting at 3pm.
Then to round off the weekend in a relaxed way four talented professional musicians will play some informal and light hearted jazz, starting at 9pm. Fronted by violinist Julian Gregory (a classical violinist with the BBC Philharmonic) this quartet should wrap up the weekend in style.
In addition to the three concerts, Artful Half Hours are scheduled to take place throughout the day on Saturday, 25th April. Admission to each of these events is £3 on the door and full details of all the events are available in our events calendar.
Philip Underwood explained "The Artful Half Hours were created especially for parents with younger children who might not otherwise be able to attend live concerts. We particularly wanted to showcase our own local talent at these.
"Above all we can think of no better place to enjoy music on a Spring day than in the light and airy tranquility of St Bart's with its comfortable modern layout following its £500,000 makeover. Everyone is welcome."
St Bartholomew's Church launched their campaign to raise £250,000 for the restoration of its pipe organ earlier this year and to date they have raised £68,000.
Photo: Jam Sandwich.
