I have just returned from a fabulous two days at the Two Moors festival.

It is always a pleasure to be there, partly because John and Penny Adie who organize the Festival are such super people and so hospitable. But the other great joy about the Festival is the truly wonderful venues that one plays in.

On Thursday night, I was in a gorgeous church in the picturesque town of Ashburton, playing two of my favourite works for chamber ensemble – the Ravel trio and Messiaen Quartet for the End of Time. My musical partners were members of the Aronowitz ensemble and the concert was terrific with a marvellous and highly appreciative audience.

However, the highlight of my visit was today, when I was driven by John (at a cracking pace!) across Exmoor, in the glorious Autumn sunshine, to Porlock Weir. At the car park we were met by Nick who is a virtuoso at driving 4 by 4 Land Rovers. It was a memorable drive in his “discovery” vehicle across rugged terrain (with some exciting sheer drops on narrow ledges). Luckily I do not suffer from vertigo and I was fascinated to watch the landscape below and enjoy the Autumnal colours and velvety moss on the rocks. Our destination was the tiniest and most magical church I have ever visited, called Culbone. The seating capacity for my concert was 36 and I’m happy to report that the concert was completely sold out!! Most members of the audience had walked the 3 miles to the church and I was glad that the weather had been so kind to us.

Inside the church there is no electricity so it was lit purely by candles and looked incredibly atmospheric and inspiring. Having done a quick change from trousers, sweater and boots into my long gown, the audience came in to the church and I began my programme of solo violin works, including Patterson, Bach and Ysaye. When I had finished, my friendly and appreciative audience asked questions about my violin and the concert gradually turned into an informal party, with us congregating outside in the sunshine to enjoy hot watercress soup and rolls and a convivial chat!

Then Nick drove us back to Porlock Weir, regaling us with stories and jokes and explaining how the suspension of the vehicle could be altered and raised - which, judging from the fact that I had to jump out of the passenger seat in the car park, I could well believe!

All in all, today was a concert day with a difference and it made me remember how fortunate I am to have a profession where I visit such fascinating and varied places, as well as to make music in unusual and magical surroundings.

Tasmin