BBC National Orchestra of Wales principal flute Matthew Featherstone to perform with Bishop’s Stortford Sinfonia in Stansted on January 18

The principal flute of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales will join Bishop’s Stortford Sinfonia for its concert in Stansted later this month.

Matthew Featherstone will join the group to perform Vivaldi’s Concerto No. 3, Il Gardellino (The Goldfinch) at St John’s Church on Saturday January 18 (7pm).

The concert, entitled Spotlight on the Flute, will see the Sinfonia present a spring and summer-inspired programme to lighten the spirit.

It will begin with a short work by Swedish composer Andrea Tarrodi - her 2011 work Lucioles was inspired by a haiku poem about fireflies creating a magnificent effect - before Featherstone takes to the stage.

The second half will feature Mendelssohn’s beloved Italian Symphony which portrays a series of impressions of Italy, from the Mediterranean sunshine and countryside to the monumental art and architecture.

The Sinfonia, under the direction of principal conductor Rebecca Miller, is formed of a uniquely talented group of local musicians and has been providing entertainment and education in and around Stortford since 2015.

Tickets for the concert, priced £18 for adults and £5 for students, can be bought in advance online at bishopsstortfordsinfonia.com or on the door. Entry for under-18s is free.