A PIANO society is preparing for its first recitals in 15 months with performances by musicians whose planned visits were postponed because of the pandemic.

Darlington Piano Society is hoping to put on its first recital on June 27, when Steven Osborne, who last performed in the town in 1998, is due to perform.

Recitals are also planned by Mei Yi Foo on July 25, George Harliono on August 22 and Antonina Suhanova on September 19.

Greg Johnson, chairman of the society, said: “The last fifteen months has been a barren period for all types of live performance, with our events having to be postponed and rescheduled a number of times because of Covid-19.

"With the progressive easing of lockdown measures, it will be a great relief to return to live performance in June, as long as there is no slippage in the easing of lockdown restrictions.

"After the difficult time experienced by many, the return of the recital series will be a boost for the wellbeing of everyone who attends”.

The recitals will take place in Central Hall at the Dolphin Centre at 3pm on the Sundays listed. Tickets can be bought in advance via the society’s website – www.dpiano.co.uk – using the booking form or through a TicketSource link.

Tickets will also be available at the door.

There are plans for six recitals in the usual winter series, which will begin in October.

Mr Johnson added: “Our efforts during lockdown have secured what I see as a continuum of ten outstanding recitals that every lover of the classical piano repertoire will revel in hearing and I hope that many will attend and take the opportunity to take a step towards normality as a result.”