TWO major concerts by Casterton Choral Society and Orchestra are staged at Lancaster Town Hall's Ashton Hall venue on Sunday and Monday (December 7&8, 7.30pm). Part of the programme includes the premiere of Prince of Peace by influential string coach and one of the region's leading musicians and composers Roland Fudge.

Roland Fudge tells me Prince of Peace is a "very in your face" presentation of Jesus, encouraging to the believer, but perhaps too uncompromising to the non-Christian: "The directness of its message is intentional because I enthusiastically believe it, and would like the music to go beyond entertainment, encouraging the open-minded to look deeply into the question as to who Jesus exactly is".

One of the main things that you pick up when chatting to Roland is his unswerving dedication to teaching the violin. He tells me everyday his religious beliefs renew his enthusiasm and ability. With such passion and conviction, it's no wonder that his students blossom into some of the best instrumentalists in the county.

Cumbria is definitely blessed with some of the finest music teachers around.

Roland is grateful for the support of Casterton Choral Society, Casterton School and its director of music David Chapman for consistently encouraging him as a composer and over the years performing three of his premieres: "It takes a degree of courage to perform music by someone whose name is not big time' or dead, especially when you are trying to attract a decent-sized audience."

If Prince of Peace is anywhere near as good as some of Roland's previously penned works, it's only a matter of time before he's recognised on a higher plane.

Roland also leads the orchestra for both concerts, which feature Karl Jenkins's classical chart-topper The Armed Man (A Mass for Peace). Ranked number 24 in the Classic FM Hall of Fame, its one of the most popular choral works of recent times.

With David Chapman conducting proceedings, the concerts promise to be splendid affairs.

Tickets are 10/ 8 concessions and available from Casterton School (015242-79200) and Lancaster Tourist Information Centre (01524-32878).