Haslemere Musical Society will usher in spring with a nature-inspired concert at Haslemere Hall on May 11 at 7.30pm.

The principal work, conducted by James Ross, comprises choruses and arias from Haydn's The Creation - a late 18th-century interpretation of the beginning of the world inspired by the book of Genesis, the Psalms and John Milton's Paradise Lost. It was groundbreaking in its time, with adventurous orchestration and more than 120 instrumentalists at its premiere.

Solos will be sung by chorus master Thomas Lydon (bass), Clare Loosley (soprano) and Richard Thesinger-Pratt (tenor).

The first half will showcase the virtuoso playing of long-standing orchestra leader Tom Horn, in Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending. This was written for violin and piano but later orchestrated, with players providing understated support as the violin soloist takes flight.

The avian theme continues with Respighi's The Birds, transcribing birdsong and movements into orchestral music with depictions of the dove, hen, nightingale and cuckoo. The prelude is the theme for antiques show Going for a Song.

Ronde des Princesses, one of the more serene movements of Stravinsky's ballet The Firebird, completes the programme.

For tickets call Haslemere Hall on 01428 642161 or visit www.haslemerehall.co.uk