THE Prince of Wales' personal harpist Catrin Finch is coming to Calne as part of a new recital series, which is helping to put the town on the map as a centre of excellence for music in the region.

A whole host of internationally renowned artists have been chosen to perform in Calne as part of its fourth Marden House Recital Series.

The Series kicked off on Sunday with a performance by Canadian violist Rivka Golani, who is well known across the globe and has had more than 200 pieces written especially for her.

The Marden House Series, which also features local musicians such as Calne-based pianist Philip Martin, comes just a month after the town's highly successful Music and Arts Festival.

Mr Martin accompanied Ms Golani at Sunday's concert, which was a million miles away from the large-scale performances she has given with famous orchestras such as the Boston Philharmonic, the Israel Philharmonic and the Royal Philharmonic.

She played works by Schubert, Schumann and Shostakovitch.

Penelope Price Jones, chairman of Marden House Concerts, said: "The viola is sometimes regarded as less suitable for playing solo than its string colleagues, the violin and cello, but in the hands of a master its rich tone is most beguiling.

"In our home we have a special love of the instrument, as our son Samuel, is intending to be a viola player."

Sixteen year-old Samuel was one of several local players who joined Ms Golani for a masterclass after the concert.

"This concert is typical of the entertainment on offer at Marden House - with an international artist playing in intimate surroundings, and then sharing their expertise with local aspiring players," said Ms Price Jones.

Marden House Concerts spokesman Tim Browne said: "This is our fourth season of first class music and, along with our festival, is putting Calne firmly on the map as a centre of excellence in the arts."

Ms Finch, who was appointed harpist to Prince Charles last year, has established an enviable international career at the age of just 21.

She will be coming to Calne for the series' second concert on December 2.

She played at the Royal Variety Performance last year and is a recipient of New York's Young Artist's Prize, which will bring her the chance to play in important debut concerts in America.

It is hoped schoolchildren will have a chance of seeing the concerts for the discounted price of £1 if they book in advance, will take inspiration from her success.

For information and tickets for attending any of the concerts in the series contact the Patch of Blue Tearoom on (01249) 819144.