LEVENS Choir’s forthcoming concerts will take us to the 17th century Republic of Venice – ‘La Serenissima’ – a proud city state showcasing its political and economic dominance through the glories of its art and music.

Arriving on the scene in 1613 to take charge of music at the basilica of San Marco, was a composer now regarded as one of the most important figures in the development of western classical music: Claudio Monteverdi.

His soundworld is one of rhythmically complex choral writing and virtuoso solo interludes, together with episodes of utterly beautiful harmonic serenity. It’s original, exciting and blazes a trail for both the cantatas of Bach and the operas of Mozart.

This will be the always excellent Levens Choir’s first concerts under its new conductor, Gawain Glenton. Brought up locally, Gawain is a sought-after music director, conductor and coach both in the UK and abroad.

He is also an internationally acclaimed cornetto player and has played and recorded with many illustrious vocal and instrumental groups. He co-directs the Gramophone award-winning English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble, whose players will be collaborating with the choir in performing this wonderful music.

‘The Glories of Venice’, a concert of music by Monteverdi and his contemporaries, can be heard on April 9 in Lancaster Priory or on April 10 in St George’s Church, Kendal, both at 7.30pm.

Tickets – £15 for adults, free for students and children under 18 – are available online. Click on the homepage under “Upcoming Events” for a link to the concert you wish to attend.