Press Release: A day in the life of a village band as seen by Thomas Hardy

A day in the life of a village band as seen by Thomas Hardy
Lively, amusing and informative

CPRE's Mid Hampshire District group invites you to join them for a performance from the 'Madding Crowd' in the beautiful surroundings of the 12th century church of the Hospital of Saint Cross, Winchester, which has superb acoustics. At 7.00 pm on Saturday 16th August 2008, the group will perform their highly popular show of the church and secular music of the English village bands and choirs, in aid of the Campaign to Protect Rural England. The Madding Crowd performs a fascinating blend of music and narration in the style of Thomas Hardy, to create the atmosphere of the old church bands performing in and out of Church. Their well-researched performance details the history of music and song in this period, which became increasingly popular following the total ban of music. It was only when the monarchy was restored that these newly formed village bands and congregations were encouraged to perform in their local churches, which brought a significantly lighter tone to services of worship.

During this historical period a great deal of very fine music and lyrics, that reflected much of the history of the period, was created. The Madding Crowd will take you back in history, with their lively, amusing and informative performance.

The Madding Crowd is one of the leading 'West Gallery Quires' in the country and is led by Mr Mike Bailey who has taken a primary role in the research of this historical music.

John Budden, of Mid Hampshire Group of CPRE said:

"This is your chance to enjoy the brilliant work of the Madding Crowd, in the stunning surroundings of the 12th century church of the Hospital of Saint Cross. It promises to be an absorbing evening's entertainment."

Tickets (£6.00 for adults and £3.00 students) and directions can be obtained from The Treasurer, CPRE Mid-Hampshire District Group, on 02392 343731 or email: j.budden3@ntlworld.com. Please make cheques payable to 'CPRE Mid Hampshire District Group'.

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CPRE/H/143

Notes to editors

The Campaign to Protect Rural England, Hampshire Branch (CPRE Hampshire) is a registered charity and a branch of the national CPRE charity.

CPRE Hampshire strives to promote the beauty, tranquility and diversity of the countryside of Hampshire by the sustainable use of land and other resources in town and country, and encouraging the biodiversity and well-being of rural communities.

For membership information on CPRE, please contact:
Pam Mason, administrator, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01962 843655
Email:admin@cprehampshire.org.uk

For event media enquiries, please contact:
Becky French, Media and Admin Assistant
Tel: 01962 843655
Email: info@cprehampshire.or.uk

For all media enquiries, please contact:
Keren Burney, media & communications officer, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01730 894123 Mobile: 07876 780065
Email: kburney000@aol.com