Classical music event to join monarch’s birthday celebrations

The Ruthven Music Festival will join in the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations with two classical music concerts entitled Happy and Glorious.

Taking place on June 10 and 12, the event opens with a concert by the Ruthven Players.

The concert will include music by Charpentier, Corelli, Grieg and Gershwin.

There will also be performances by Perth choir Chansons, including The Gift of Life – a selection of poems by Alexander McCall Smith set to music composed by Tom Cunningham.

The festival’s second concert will take place on the afternoon of Sunday, June 12, and will feature the Ruthven Players, conducted by Allan Young, performing music by Handel, Bargiel, Parry and Haydn.

Evelyn Hood is a member of the committee which organises the annual festival, held in the former church at Ruthven, near Alyth.

She said: “It’s not every day we can celebrate the 90th birthday of a much-loved monarch.

“When planning the programmes for these concerts, we selected heart-lifting classical pieces which inspire jubilation and celebration – music which is truly happy and glorious.”

She added: “At the Sunday afternoon concert, we will be continuing with the longstanding tradition of supporting and encouraging young musicians. This year, we’re delighted to be joined by Lorna Doyle, a 17-year-old cellist from Milnathort, whose musical skills are currently attracting considerable attention.”

Booking opens on May 1, with tickets priced £20. Email ruthvenfestival@tiscali.co.uk or phone 01828 632558.