Peter Medhurst
Although upward of a 100 pleasure gardens are known to have thrived in 18th century London, it was Vauxhall, with its walks, triumphal arches, statues and famous reputation for scandal, that became the firm favourite with Londoners and visitors alike. For the price of a shilling, patrons could stroll through the treelined avenues accompanied by the voices of nature, or – if they wished – could dine to the popular melodies of the day, played by the famous Orchestra. Drawing on period newspapers and diaries and music especially composed for the gardens, Peter Medhurst tells the story of London’s first ‘South Bank’.
Peter did his musical training at the Royal College of Music in London and his work as a singer, pianist and lecturer has taken him all over the world. He is a familiar face to audiences of music societies, regional theatres and British festivals as well as art based organisations and has a number of recordings to his name Radio work has included Classic FM, Radio 3 and Radio 4.