Isobel Buchanan joins the
Bath Philarmonia in Longleat Gala

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Press Release Published: 18 June 2008
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Isobel Buchanan, the world renowned opera singer, has been added to the bill at the Frome Festival's prestige event to be held at the Great Hall in Longleat.

Ms. Buchanan will be giving a very different type of recital, when she reads the poems of Edith Sitwell and family, as set to the music of William Walton in the highly entertaining piece entitled "Façade".

Featuring members of the Bath Philharmonia, conducted by Jason Thornton, "Façade" is a wonderful diversion for a summer evening in magnificent settings. As Festival Director Martin Dimery explained:

"Longleat House has been very generous in allowing the use of the Great Hall for this concert. The elegant setting is ideal for this celebration of 1920's culture. White tie, tails, and flapper dresses, are, of course, optional! We simply want to create a relaxed and casual atmosphere for what will be a beautifully performed piece. The audience will be greeted with a drink on arrival, and will be able to mingle amongst the beautiful paintings and artefacts in the grand entrance of the House. We are delighted that Isobel Buchanan has agreed to be our guest performer for the event."

Isobel Buchanan graduated from the Royal Scottish Academy and made her debut at Glyndbourne in 1978. She subsequently sang with Vienna State Opera, at Covent Garden , and in opera houses throughout the world, working with some of the most eminent conductors and directors including Haitink, Solti, Sir Colin Davis, and Sir Peter Hall.

Ms. Buchanan has featured in numerous recordings, radio and television performances alongside some of the all time greats including Jose Carreras.

The Façade concert will take place on Thursday 10th July at 7.30 at Longleat.

Advanced booking is recommended from the Cheese and Grain Box Office in Frome, on 01373 455420.