Classical: York's early music festival

'Escape from the rush of the pre-Christmas season,' advises Delma Tomlin, Director of the National Centre for Early Music. 'Our Festival holds a special place in the city of York's Christmas calender, and our programmes should continue to delight our audiences.

With ten concerts packed into eight days, there really is something to please everyone whether you enjoy the carols of Nuns and Roses with the five female vocalists of Joglaresa (December 12), or the more earthy sounds of In Echo, a five-piece ensemble who present the seventeenth century story of sea-faring nations (December 15).

Moving to music in a ‘classical mode’, the Yorkshire Bach Choir are on hand to take us back to Christmas in the times of the  Bach family, featuring some of Johann Sebastian’s most memorable music including the ever-popular Sleepers, Wake (December 10).

More from that era in the 70th birthday concert of the renowned conductor, Trevor Pinnock, his UK anniversary tour including the familiar Fifth Brandenburg Concerto (December 11).

Maybe you fancy something a little more risqué in the company of Red Priest, led by the amazing recorder virtuoso, Piers Adams, as they present a modern twist on a Baroque festive season (December 14), or you may want something gently soothing from the unaccompanied voices of Renaissance who bring lullabies and carols (December 13).

Most of the events take place in St Margaret’s Church. For details and booking information visit www.ncem.co.uk/xmas