Musical tribute to St Bede

THE life of famous saint the Venerable Bede will be celebrated with the sound of music.

A new work by South Tyneside composer Ron Smith will be premiered at Bede’s World in Jarrow.

Based on the life and work of the revered scholar and saint, who studied and prayed at the monastic site of St Paul’s Church, Jarrow, the work will be performed by the composer.

Mr Smith, who spent several months creating his Bede Concerto, used the latest computer-generated sounds for his musical tribute to St Bede.

He said: “The scope of the instrument’s capabilities is truly amazing and as a lover of music, I think Bede himself would have been intrigued and appreciative of the Bede Concerto.

“I am looking forward to performing it live, not least as it is just great fun to play.”

Mr Smith added: “I was quite inspired by the idea and as a former head chorister at St Paul’s, I felt a deep sense of spirit and creativity while writing this composition.”

The Bede Concerto will be performed by Mr Smith during the Enchanted Christmas festive weekend at Bede’s World, on Saturday and Sunday, December 10 and 11, at 1pm and 3pm both days.

Numerous festive attractions will be held over the weekend, featuring everything from pottery to crafts and spoons playing.

Admission to the Bede Concerto is included in the normal museum admission price.

Call Bede’s World on 489 2106 for more details or visit the museum website at www.bedesworld.co.uk.