An illustrated talk by Dr Gillian White

John Churchill successfully navigated the torrid world of late Stuart politics, achieved huge success for his country on the battlefield, and was then toppled as the political sands shifted. We’ll meet a strategist who manoeuvred troops with confidence and audacity, a man of conscience who committed treason for his faith, and an ambitious gambler who played the game of court politics with flair and determination. We meet the women who helped and supported him: a sister, a lover, a wife and a queen. 

A national hero but no saint

Father-and-son team Thomas and George are known over the world as Thomas and George Violin Makers, with workshops in Williamscot. They have a long tradition of making, restoring and dealing in all things double bass. Tom is also an internationally renowned soloist and orchestral player. Together they reveal the traditions and techniques involved in this centuries-old and skilled craft. How do double basses work? Who made the best ones? What tools are used? How do different woods sound? Do different ways of making affect the sound?

Gill White, Bess of Hardwick and Hardwick Hall.

Bess of Hardwick is one of the most fascinating women of the 16th century, and her most famous building, Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire, survives as a fine example of Elizabethan creativity, magnificence and pride.  This talk outlines Bess’s remarkable life and then explores the architecture and contents of Hardwick Hall , surely her lasting monument.