SHAWMS and curtals – 16th century instruments to most people – will bring the Elizabethan era to life tonight.

Innovative musical group Piva perform at St Swithun’s Church, off Worcester High Street, as part of the Worcester Early Music Festival, itself part of the Worcester Festival. Specialising in 16th century music the band uses reproductions of historical instruments coupled with authentic costume to create a spectacle of sound and sight.

“I’m really pleased to be playing in Worcester as this city has such a strong musical heritage,” said Jane Moulder, Piva’s historical researcher who was raised in the city. Formed in 2002, the band has a growing reputation for entertaining shows and they have played at some of the country’s leading early music festivals.

Positive feedback and reviews reveal that people who are not familiar with 16th-century music are often surprised at how lively and accessible it can be.

Four out of the five Piva members are professional historical musical instrument makers, as well as players. Prior to their Worcester Festival performance they will give a talk, entitled Meet The Music Makers, about the instruments and their connections with Henry VIII, Shakespeare and Italy.

The Italian theme will run into evening.

“There were very strong cultural ties between England and Italy in Elizabethan times and this country looked to Italy for the latest fashions, music and dances,” said Piva director Eric Moulder.

Tickets are available in advance from the Worcester Festival box office on 01905 611427 and also on the door.

For more about the band go to piva.org.uk