John Packwood classical line-up

I have decided to start this column again as the concerts are beginning in earnest over the next few weeks.

Today, August 21, there is a lunchtime concert by Bryan Anderson (organ) at New Room, Wesley Chapel at 1.20pm. Admission is free.

On Sunday, August 23, the Emerald Ensemble play at a new venue, the Olympus Theatre, Filton College. John James conducts Vivaldi's and Piazolla's Four Seasons. There is also a performance of Holst's St Paul's Suite. The, contact 9312121.

Tuesday, August 25, sees the last of the very successful lunchtime Viennese Summer Series at Bristol Cathedral where Richard and Rebecca Marshall (cornets), members of the famous Black Dyke Band, with Philip Willby (piano, will play amongst other works Vivaldi's Concerto For Two Trumpets. Starting at 1.15pm, admission is free.

On Wednesday, August 26, Anthony Hammond (organ) plays at Christ Church, Broad Street. Again admission is free and it starts at 1.10pm.

The same evening there is another concert by the Emerald Ensemble, this time at Shirehampton Public Hall. Under the title Summer Serenade, the orchestra will include Vaughan Williams' popular The Lark Ascending. There is a special reason for using this venue for it was here in 1920 that the composer and Marie Hall, a famous violinist of the time, premiered the work in a version for solo violin and piano.

Tickets are priced at £10 (including refreshments) and available from the hall or on 9829963. It is a 7.30pm start.

Next week I will be previewing forthcoming concerts at both St George's and Colston Hall.