MUSIC composed 370 years ago and discovered in the library of Chirk Castle is to be played for the first time since the English Civil War.
In 1979 a set of music books, lying unnoticed in Chirk Castle's library since the 1630's, were sold at Sotheby's. The collection ended up in New York Public Library where its treasures have been studied by scholars from across the world.
Now students at Bangor are preparing to perform them for the first time in centuries. The books contain Anglican hymns and anthems, which is probably why they survived the attentions of Cromwell's puritanical forces.
Many of the 22 compositions are by the leading musicians of the day.
James I's favourite composer, Thomas Weelkes, features within the books, as does John Amner, an organist at Ely Cathedral and a favoured composer of Elizabeth I.
A quarter of the compositions have never been heard since the last time the books were used, possibly around the time of the beginning of the Civil War, after which musical entertainment was outlawed.
Students at Bangor University have been studying copies of the manuscripts and have edited them together in the modern style so today's musicians can read them.
They will be performed at the castle's chapel by Dr David Evans and Bangor University Chamber Choir on Wednesday, March 16. This is an opportunity to experience the music in the building in which it was originally intended to be performed.
Tickets and information are available from Chirk Castle on 01691 777701.
