Instrument find brings Tudor times to life

The University of Sheffield's Department of Music is bringing Tudor times to life thanks to the discovery of a collection of original and replica Tudor instruments. Dr Tim Shephard found the instruments whilst sorting through the department's store rooms, including a lute, a vielle and a set of crumhorns. Dr Shephard said: "To have such a large collection of Early Modern instruments is very unusual so we were keen to share them with the community. We decided to restore them and use them to help people of all ages learn about early music." Dr Shephard worked with students to take the instruments out into local schools to help children learn about music in Tudor times, and also with Friends of Bishop's House to create an exhibition exploring Tudor and Jacobean music. Tudor music: Past and Present is now open at Bishop's House Museum in Sheffield until 10 November, curated by student Chris Leffler. The exhibition features instruments from the collection, performances, talks and demonstrations. Visitors will also be able to explore Sheffield's relationship with Early Music Revival in the 70s and 80s, and how Yorkshire craftspeople contributed to the re-creation of early instruments.