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The path through the churchyard of St Mary’s was lined with spring flowers such as bluebells and primula on the sunny evening of the Swansong’s aptly named  ‘Music in Spring’ concert.

St Mary’s have been hosting these delightful musical evenings instead of the usual venue of Acocks Green Library, because of the impending roof works. Talented Swedish musicians Sarah Wilander (piano) and Linnea Markgren (soprano) delighted the 50 strong audience with a varied programme of songs and piano. The sun shone through the striking Byrne-Jones stained glass window as the musicians took to the alter.  The local community enjoyed a wonderful selection of music linked with the themes of spring, summer and nature. These included some Swedish and French songs, and piano solos of nocturnes from Benjamin Britton and Samuel Barber. After refreshments the pair continued to entertain with another selection including Debussy’s beautiful Clair de Lune and the exciting and powerful Dance of the Trolls from Grieg’s Peer Gynt.  Linnea introduced each selection with little insights about the pieces and their reasons for choosing them.

Thanks to former Acocks Green Librarian Mike Byrne for continuing to organise such well-appreciated evenings, to which all music lovers are welcome. The next Swansong is on Wednesday 24th July.  K’antu Ensemble will perform songs and dances of Renaissance Europe. Donations are made at the end of the evening. Make a note in your diary and come and enjoy musical enlightenment in Acocks Green!