THE acclaimed Orchestra of the Swan is returning to Pershore's Number 8 venue with its Spring Concert series.

Entitled "Mozart, His Friends, Admirers & Rivals", the series will include three concerts, with the first taking place on Friday February 12, at 7.30pm.

A spokesman said: "This will focus on flute and horn concertos. The second concert, on Friday March 11, will focis on oboe and bassoon, and the third concert, on Friday April 15, will focis on the violin concertos."

Emma Bangham, programme manager at Number 8 said: “The Orchestra of the Swan’s performances here last year were brilliant, with praise for the excellence of their musicianship and presentation, and audience demands for these top quality performers to return.

"The Spring concert series audiences the opportunity to experience this superb chamber orchestra at their finest as they explore the genius of Mozart and his contemporaries”.

A chamber orchestra with its home in the heart of Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon, the Orchestra of the Swan "stands for excellence, innovation and accessibility".

Last season they gave over sixty concerts throughout England and Wales. They undertook a highly successful tour to China and gave a UK tour with Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel, culminating in a sell-out performance at London’s Albert Hall before an audience of 5,500.

Later on on the year, the orchestra will tour Turkey and Mexico.

Tickets and further information regarding the Pershore concerts on 01386 555488 or online at www.number8.org