6 December – Musica Medievalis
Join us for a magical afternoon and experience the rich tapestry of music that filled the air centuries ago, from haunting melodies to lively dances. Marco Cannavo, Steve Tyler and Katy Marchant present an instrumental journey into the music of medieval Europe, spanning the 12th to 15th centuries. Featuring historical musical instruments such as hurdy-gurdy and its early predecessors, bagpipes, harp, lute, citole, portative organ, and percussions, the concert explores rhythms and melodies from both sacred and secular traditions, interpreted with imaginative freedom while remaining rooted in historical sources. Much of the music would have been heard in churches during Christmas and other religious celebrations, while the livelier tunes would have been played at seasonal gatherings and communal festivities. Harken thou to the melody!
Marco Cannavò is a hurdy-gurdy player and multi-instrumentalist dedicated to medieval and traditional music. Having studied with and mentored by Steve Tyler they now collaborate on projects exploring the music of medieval Europe with performances throughout the UK. Deeply connected to his Southern Italian heritage, the tambourine holds a central place in Marco’s musical identity and in the traditions of Southern Italy.
Steve Tyler is a renowned hurdy-gurdy player. For many years a performer of medieval music, his main interest is in patterns and rhythms and the resulting interweaving of different instruments, inspired by patterns in nature, mathematics and the imagination. He has performed with such diverse artists as English folk singer Jackie Oates, German industrial/electronic musician F.M. Einheit and South African puppeteer John Roberts.
Katy Marchant is a musician and mask maker and was the founder and director of ‘Daughters of Elvin: A Medieval Music and Dance Theatre Company’. In 2012 Katy and Steve formed the band Woodwose, a quartet specialising in medieval music and balfolk, and writing their own compositions for bagpipes and hurdy-gurdy. With Steve, Katy has performed throughout Britain, Ireland, Europe and Scandinavia.
Pre-Concert Workshop: 11:00AM
Prior to the afternoon concert why not join Marco, Steve and Katy for an interactive and family-friendly Medieval Music Workshop at the Old Chapel!
In this relaxed session, get up close and personal with a range of beautiful medieval instruments that will feature in the afternoon concert. Learn how their unique sounds are produced and how they were played in medieval times. There will be plenty of time to ask questions and see the instruments up close. For those interested, some of the instruments may be available to try out under supervision (though not all instruments can be handled). This workshop is perfect for everyone, including families (children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian). School groups are warmly invited to join. A wonderful way to dive into medieval music and explore its rich sounds and traditions before going to the afternoon concert. Come and enjoy this unique experience!
Have a listen:
