A world-renowned musician, who made his name with one of the UK's most successful rock bands and latterly as a pioneering classical composer, has created a bespoke composition to put Durham on the world map.

Jon LordJon Lord, innovative keyboard player and songwriter with rock legend Deep Purple, is highly-regarded for his contemporary approach to classical music after his seminal work ‘Concerto for Group and Orchestra’ achieved world recognition.

This pioneering composition was the first serious attempt to marry rock and classical music and blazed a trail for the likes of Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Elvis Costello and Queen. It was first performed at the Royal Albert Hall on September 24th 1969 with Deep Purple sharing the stage with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

"The Durham Concerto" has been composed by Lord to honour the great heritage and majesty of the City of Durham and to commemorate the University's 175th anniversary. An original fusion of classical and contemporary influences, the piece was performed by the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Mischa Damev, with soloists, including Lord and Katherine Tickell, before an international audience of VIP guests at the world premiere in Durham Cathedral on Saturday 20 October.