Celtic War Horn Returns To Bowland

An ancient Celtic warhorn, the carnyx, is returning to the Forest of Bowland for the first time in 2000 years.

William Bowland, 16th Lord of Bowland, has announced the world premiere of a specially-commissioned choral work featuring the carnyx.

Written by Lakeland composer, Christopher Gibbs, The Music of the Forest will receive its world premiere at Slaidburn Village Hall on Thursday 15 June 2017. The four-part song cycle evokes the landscape and history of the Forest of Bowland and will be performed by the Renaissance Singers of Blackburn Cathedral under Samuel Hudson’s baton. Internationally acclaimed trombonist and experimental musician, John Kenny, will play the carnyx.

Composer Christopher Gibbs said: “William Bowland has given me the opportunity to write this landmark song cycle whose world premiere will feature a unique expert on the carnyx, John Kenny. It is a piece that is likely to change the way we think about the Forest of Bowland and its history”.

William Bowland said: “In the past, I have described my love of Bowland as 'nostalgia for the future'. In commissioning this song cycle and hosting its world premiere in Slaidburn, I want to put Bowland firmly back on the cultural map”.

John Kenny, who will play the carynx, said: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to bring the haunting sound of carnyx back to Bowland after 2000 years. Chris Gibbs’ composition and William Bowland’s lyrics offer a rich and exciting backdrop for this ancient Celtic war horn”.

Elliott Lorimer, Forest of Bowland Principal AONB Officer at Lancashire County Council, said: "This promises to be a very memorable concert. This is a very exciting project and we are very much looking forward to hearing this ancient instrument in the Forest of Bowland for the first time in 2000 years."

Booking is essential for this event at Slaidburn Village Hall. Tickets are priced at £7.50.

For further information, contact the AONB office on 01200 448000