A WARHORN first heard in the Forest of Bowland around 2,000 years ago is set to make a triumphant return.

Evoking the area’s Celtic heritage, the carynx will be sounded at the end of the world premiere of a new song cycle commissioned by Lord Bowland.

Lakeland composer Christopher Gibbs has brought together four thought-provoking pieces for The Music of the Forest.

And the climax at Slaidburn Village Hall on Thursday, June 15, will see internationally-acclaimed trombonist and experimental musician John Kenny playing the carynx.

Blackburn Cathedral’s Renaissance Singers are pencilled in for the performance, under conductor Samuel Hudson.

William Bowland, the 16th lord, said: “In the past, I have described my love of Bowland as ‘nostalgia for the future’.

“In commissioning this song cycle and hosting its world premiere in Slaidburn, I want to put Bowland firmly back on the cultural map.”

Starting with the Lord Kings of Bowland, after the monarchs who held the title between 1399 and 1660, the cycle moves to Bowland Sun, acclaiming Henry, William’s son and heir.

The verse reads: “In the darkness of this moment of death, we must ask who will equal the strength and valour of this warrior, Raven-Feeder. In heaven and earth, there was not a bolder or keener heart within living memory to compare”.

Lord of the Fells reverts to Viking times and commemorates high chief Agmundr, featuring a verse in Old Norse.

The ‘kenning’ reads: “In the darkness of this moment of death, we must ask who will equal the strength and valour of this warrior, Raven-Feeder.

“In heaven and earth, there was not a bolder or keener heart within living memory to compare”.

Mr Kenny’s coup de grace, with the boar-headed horn, comes as part of Sons of Setanta, the final passage.

The composer said: “William Bowland has given me the opportunity to write this landmark song cycle whose world premiere will feature a unique expert on the carnyx.

“It is a piece that is likely to change the way we think about the Forest of Bowland and its history.”

Mr Kenny added: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to bring the haunting sound of the carnyx back to Bowland after 2,000 years.

“Chris Gibbs’ composition and William Bowland’s lyrics offer a rich and exciting backdrop for this ancient Celtic war horn.”

People interested in hearing the song cycle are being advised they should book their tickets, which will be priced at £7.50.

For further information on tickets, contact the Forest of Bowland office on 01200 448000 or e-mail sandra.silk@lancashire.gov.uk or enquiries@slaidburnarchive.org