programme of events - Wednesday 9 July 2008

Alfie Boe and Natasha Marsh joined by Courtney Pine, with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra conducted by Peter Robinson

The genuinely stellar talent that is young operatic tenor Alfie Boe is joined by the equally highly rated soprano Natasha Marsh in a concert of operatic and contemporary repertoire.

In a special one-off collaboration for the Henley Festival, both artists will be joined by Courtney Pine. With the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra conducted by Peter Robinson.

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra sponsored by:

The Courtney Pine Band

Credited with transforming the face of contemporary British Jazz, Courtney Pine is revered across the world for his innovative style and love of playing live. Expect an explosive set from this greatest of all jazz performers.

‘The UK’s most important jazz instrumentalist.’ - Observer

Tasmin Little (violin) with John Lenehan (piano)

One of the world’s leading violinists, this much loved musician (and previous visitor to Henley’s Floating Stage) performs music by Mozart, Grieg and Tchaikovsky.

Show of Hands with special guest Miranda Sykes

Steve Knightley and Phil Beer are widely acknowledged as the finest accoustic roots duo in England with a huge following that has seen them twice sell out the Albert Hall, and headline at major festivals from Glastonbury to WOMAD.

The Joe Stilgoe Trio

The brilliant and witty 26-year old jazz pianist and trio.

Firework finale featuring the Ceremonial Drums of Dulsori (Korea)

With a spectacular firework backdrop, Korean master drummers Dulsori present a mighty barrage of ancient rhythms imitating sounds heard in nature.

Junkanoo Backline Carnival Band (Bahamas)

As the firework finale fades away, the joyous musical expression of a 30 piece Bahamian carnival band, complete with magnificent costumes.