Medieval Music in the Dales — the UKs only festival dedicated solely to medieval music — will take place this week at Bolton Castle.
The festival is a labour of love for Richmond-based medieval ensemble Trouvere – Gill Page and Paul Leigh.
Gill is also the director of Richmond MayFest and is a believer in bringing historical and traditional music to a wider audience.
She said: “Everyone is welcome at Medieval Music in the Dales – whether you play music yourself as a professional or just for fun, or whether you just like listening to the music, or whether you are simply into medieval history and visiting castles, it’s a great experience.
“You might like to get a taster by just visiting Bolton Castle for the day – there’s a lot of the festival just included in the general admission to the Castle – or by attending one of our evening concerts, or go the whole hog and get a festival pass to really immerse yourself in the whole event.”
Starting from the smallest of beginnings in 2016 with a crowdfunding campaign, the festival has grown to have worldwide recognition, attracting medievalists and musicians from all over the world.
This year, the festival features musicians from Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Switzerland and Germany, as well as many from the UK.
Visiting Australian David Yardley, a medieval countertenor, harpist and composer, said: “I’ve dreamed of performing at this unique festival ever since hearing of it.
“From immersive medieval music in the castle, to teaching from international experts, to ale and merriment in the tavern, I know that a transporting and joyful experience awaits.”
For more information, contact Gill at medievalmusicinthedales@gmail.com or visit the website medievalmusicinthedales.co.uk.
