Haddon Hall hosts music recitals

This year will see almost a dozen performances from some of the region’s finest musicians taking place in the hall or grounds of Haddon.

Lady Edward said: “Our intention is that you sit and listen and enjoy this wonderful addition to your visit.

“The house comes alive when music is performed, as it would have done so from creation of the hall in the 12th century and ever since.

“Music has always been a part of Haddon’s history and I want to bring this back for visitors today to experience.”

The programme for this second season of recitals at Haddon features a mixture of local and regional concerts from professional musicians including string, brass, classical and swing, as well as some of the best youth and adult amateur music organisations from Derbyshire and neighbouring counties.

The performances have been organised by Philip King who was for many years responsible for the Derbyshire Local Authority’s Music Service. He said: “It’s a real pleasure to give youth and adult ensembles the opportunity of performing in such a stunning setting, often to 400 or more visitors. This year we again will involve instrumental ensembles from three of the county’s area music centres. In addition there will be adult guitar ensembles and choirs – all there to enhance the visitors’ experience.”

A classical ensemble from the Royal Northern College of Music will launch the new season on Easter Saturday by playing in the hall’s exquisite Smythson Long Gallery.

Music events will continue until mid-September.

Lady Edward added: “I look forward to welcoming the musicians and visitors to Haddon this year to experience how well the sound of live music works in these ancient rooms.”