Contrary to England’s Nineteenth Century reputation as The land without music, there have been periods where composers from these shores have been at the forefront of musical innovation and creativity. This was particularly the case during the Tudor and Early Stuart period.

The accession: a bittersweet moment in history, as an old régime passes and a new one begins. This concert mourns the passing in 1625 of King James I of England and celebrates the crowning of the new king, Charles I, through music by John Dowland, William Byrd, Robert Lugge, Thomas Campion and Thomas Tomkins.

Celebrated tenor and President of Wallingford Chameleon Arts, John Mark Ainsley, together with William Whitehead (who combines the skills of virtuoso organist, communicator and musicologist) are joined by Daisy Bevan (soprano), and performers on instruments of the period; Liz Kenny (lute), Emily White (sackbut) and Helen Roberts (cornett).