The Bedwyn Music Society launches its 2004 season on May 21 with a visit to the village by Prevailing Winds.

The quintet of oboe, flute, clarinet, horn and bassoon is led by Howard Nelson and will present a programme of contrasting chamber music.

On July 2 pianist Jack Gibbons, who last appeared in Bedwyn eight years ago, will be making a welcome return visit.

He has an international reputation for his interpretations of music by Gershwin and his programme will also include some Chopin.

On July 30 the outstanding young cellist Richard Harwood, who recently won the 2004 Pierre Fournier Award for cellists, will be appearing thanks to the kind sponsorship of the Kirckman Concert Society.

The ever-popular members' concert will be on September 17.

The season will be brought to an end by the appearance of Bath Camerata, current winners of the Salisbury Cathedral adult choir competition, who make a return visit on October 2. They will be directed by Nigel Perrin.

All the concerts will be in St Mary's Church, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8.50 (members £6), children free, and can be obtained at the door or from the chairman Andrew Hutchison, telephone (01672) 870970.

Mr Hutchison founded the society 18 years ago.

He said: "We have never had a penny in subsidy and produce first class concerts in an acoustically wonderful setting at ridiculously low prices."