The music programmes have been carefully created and arranged by violist and composer Simon Rowland-Jones in close association with the musicians and will be hosted by Barry Cheeseman of Kirker Holidays. After many years of experience we have learnt that on a music cruise our clients wish to discover new works as well as enjoy some familiar favourites. Getting the mix just right is an integral part of Simon Rowland-Jones’ work when planning the programme and we are confident that everyone will find something of interest in each of our concerts.

Although the Black Watch carries just over 800 passengers, the Kirker Music Festival’s private concerts are restricted to Kirker guests (we anticipate approximately 60-90 participants) and will be held in the Marina Theatre, ideal for listening to chamber music. Concerts will take place on most days of the cruise and will be complemented by a number of informative talks and interviews with the musicians. In addition to the Kirker programme, two further concerts will be given in the Neptune Lounge for everyone on board to enjoy.

The Kirker Choir 

As well as enjoying the comprehensive programme of concerts, talks and interviews with the musicians, you may want to sign up for the Kirker Choir on board. The choir will be formed by members of the party and coached by Christopher Monckton for a performance in Copenhagen towards the end of the cruise. The choir’s repertoire for this cruise will be Fauré’s Requiem. There will be approximately ten hours of rehearsal carefully scheduled to ensure that you don’t miss precious time onshore. Elaine Padmore, our Guest Speaker, is herself a trained singer and will join in the rehearsals. After you have booked, you will be sent a questionnaire, compiled by Christopher, and asked to provide details about your singing experience and your voice type. Based on this information he will compile a suitable programme. We hope to encourage everyone to join the choir from beginners to experienced singers and everyone else in between. So whether you want to sing on board or simply enjoy the extensive music programmes we have compiled we look forward to welcoming you on the Black Watch next May!

The Doric String Quartet, the Gould Piano Trio, Ilona Domnich, soprano, Simon Rowland-Jones, viola, Robert Plane, clarinet, Christopher Monckton, choir master and Guest Speaker, former Director of the Royal Opera Elaine Padmore.

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There will be optional shore excursion this evening to the Royal Swedish Opera for a performance of Benjamin Britten’s opera, Peter Grimes, being given as part of Britten’s Centenary Year world wide celebrations.

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