A SELL-OUT concert series organised by Durham County Council is increasing its venues from four to five for its third season.

Live in the Libraries, featuring Classic Rhythm, will tour the county from May 10 to 14.

The trio of musicians, who play flute, keyboard and percussion, will start at Barnard Castle Library on May 10, then go to Newton Hall on May 11, Crook on May 12, Lanchester on May 13, and Murton on May 14.

Helen O'Connell, Adrian Sutcliffe and Chris Brannick, who all studied at the Royal Academy of Music have played to sell-out audiences all over the country.

All three have performed at big venues around the world.

County council music development officer Alan Hood said: "Because there are only three players, audiences are always bemused by the vast array of instruments on stage - some familiar, some not.

"Skilful arrangements of well-known classics are complemented by the group's warm informality.

"Live in the Libraries is based on the belief that live music should be available to all in local venues as well as in larger towns which can sometimes be impractical to visit because of distance, cost, parking or worries about personal safety.

"Libraries are ideal venues for these small-scale concerts because they are familiar, conveniently place community buildings that can accommodate an audience drawn from the local area."

The concerts all start at 7.30pm.

Published: 13/04/2004