On Sunday evening (March 27) visitors poured in their hundreds through Taunton Minster, viewing the moon installation by Luke Jerram and listening to a concert by musicians from the Taunton-based Southern Sinfonia orchestra.

Sheila Read, chair of the orchestra's board, said: “It was a marvellous opportunity to showcase the talent and versatility of our professional musicians and to introduce Southern Sinfonia to so many members of the public. The support for the concert was tremendous.”

Somerset County Gazette:

A photo from the concert

Musical director Simon Chalk put together a programme of moon-themed music for violin, piano, and organ, ranging from the Moonlight Sonata to the ever-popular Moon River, and catering to many tastes.

He said: “The concert was unique in that people were encouraged to wander round as we played.

"Having two different genres of art displayed together - sculpture and music - and in such magnificent surroundings, was an immersive experience for those who came, and for us as musicians - we were 'over the moon' at the response.”

Ed Jenkins, professional musician and Southern Sinfonia board member, added: “As director of Music at Queen's, I am passionate about introducing young people to the arts and music in particular.

“It was particularly rewarding to see so many youngsters gathered around the violinist and the piano, displaying interest in seeing us play in such an unusual setting.

“In fact, one young man was so inspired that he asked if he could sit down at the piano and join us. We were impressed by his talent - and clearly, so was the audience.”

Anyone wishing to find out more about Southern Sinfonia or join their mailing list can email info@southernsinfonia.co.uk or visit the website https://southernsinfonia.org.uk