Eating Sound

Now in its second year, the event holds as its central concept that the addition of music and setting can affect and enhance the tastes on a palate. Where this differs from pre-recorded music is the live chamber group means awareness, interaction and the effect of a moment in time is more pronounced. We offer guests a tasting menu and paired wine alongside the live music in the dining room decorated in keeping with the season. Its purpose is to inspire and enthral.

What does Eating Sound involve?

Our Head Chef, Aidan McGee, uses produce of the season to create a bespoke, six course tasting menu reflecting either Autumn, Winter, Spring or Summer. In turn, composer Sam Bailey sits down to eat and compose a series of works to combine with each dish. He refines this over time and the resulting score is sent to musicians engaged to play the piece live alongside the food being served to guests. In tandem, our sommelier discusses the wine selections to serve with each course and these are added to the repertoire for the night.

What do the guests do?

Enjoy your welcome drink downstairs and be led to the dining room, taking a seat at the large banqueting table. Look around and absorb the décor, and get to grips with the Scorecard that you'll receive, on which you'll be able to rate how well the music matches or complements the food you will be eating. The wait staff, bedecked in masks made by The Masketeers will be on hand to welcome you. Andrew will host the evening and introduce each course before it is served, describe the wine that is paired with the dish, and introduce the ensemble. You'll then hear the music to accompany the course while you eat.

As the evening progresses, the courses and wine flow, and the music continues to stimulate and entertain. At the end of the evening scorecards are collected and the host announces the winning dish and music combination.