The influences of folk music on classical music.All composers are influenced by the sounds around them, from the sound of horses trotting or galloping in the pre-modern era to that of machines, influencing minimalist music of today. One important source of musical ideas is the prevalent folk music of the time. This year’s programme reflects … Continue reading "Berwick Music Series 2023"

A talk by Mike WorboysThis is part of the Berwick Music Series 2023; you can find the full programme and buy a Series Pass by clicking here.Mike Worboys’ popular talks continue with a discussion of JS Bach’s Suites for solo cello. The talk will review Bach’s residency at the court of Prince Leopold at Köthen … Continue reading "Talk I: JS Bach and his suites for solo cello"

We welcome Fiona back to BerwickThis is part of the Berwick Music Series 2023; you can find the full programme and buy a Series Pass by clicking here.Scottish violist Fiona Winning was until 2014 Principal Viola of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. She has been a regular guest principal of the Philharmonia and London Philharmonic Orchestras, … Continue reading "Concert II: Fiona Winning, solo viola"

A joint event with Berwick Literary FestivalThis is part of the Berwick Music Series 2023; you can find the full programme and buy a Series Pass by clicking here.Kate Molleson is a journalist and broadcaster. She presents BBC Radio 3’s New Music Show and Music Matters. Her documentaries (BBC Radio 4, BBC World Service) have … Continue reading "Kate Molleson in conversation"

A talk by Mike WorboysThis is part of the Berwick Music Series 2023; you can find the full programme and buy a Series Pass by clicking here.Folk music has had an influence on ‘classical’ composers, from Hildegard von Bingen to composers of the present day. This talk will provide an historical whistle-stop tour, before focusing … Continue reading "Talk II: Folk influences in classical music"

Dvorak and two North Eastern composersThis is part of the Berwick Music Series 2023; you can find the full programme and buy a Series Pass by clicking here.Formed in 2017, the Frankland Quartet’s musical identity is embedded in the North East of England. Long-time colleagues in Royal Northern Sinfonia, the Quartet has a deep commitment … Continue reading "Frankland String Quartet"

A three hour study day by art historian Prof Maria Chester analysing the work of Picasso in relation to his muses.Femme Couchée (1932) A three hour Study Day by art historian and BEA lecturer Prof Maria Chester,analysing the work of Picasso in relation to his muses. Paul is dead, Picasso is eternal. We will analyse … Continue reading "Picasso and his Muses: Wives,Goddesses and Doormats"

This introduction to Autumn Astronomy is suitable for complete beginners or more experienced studentsA course of five lectures in astronomy by Dr. Adrian Jannetta, on Saturdays from 11 am to 12 noon via Zoom. This course for beginners has a mix of theory and practical advice for stargazing. It will provide a solid foundation for … Continue reading "Introduction to Autumn Astronomy"

An introduction to the glorious ancient city of Rome Joseph Mallord William Turner (British, 1775 - 1851) Modern Rome - Campo Vaccino, 1839 The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles This series of three talks by Dr. June Neilson on Mondays from 10 am to 12 noon, is an exploration of the growth and development … Continue reading "Ancient Rome: from humble beginnings to a splendid city"

Join the Rangers from Space for Shorebirds Northumberland for a two-hour guided walk along the shore at Little Beach, Berwick-upon-Tweed.The Northumberland coast is a truly special place for many reasons: it’s landscape, nature, people and history. Space for Shorebirds Northumberland is dedicated to protecting the birds and dunes of the Northumberland coast which are globally … Continue reading "Autumn Shorebird Spotting: Guided Walk"

The Art and History of Japanese Postage StampsWe welcome back Madeleine Ravetta for another of her entertaining talks, an unusual subject which promises to appeal to everyone, even to those who have no interest in stamps! Madeleine is giving this talk in aid of Berwick Cancer Cars, for which she is a volunteer driver. Since … Continue reading "Japan in Miniature"