Rural Touring Events
Unique, interactive, concert experiences by K’antu Ensemble.
Founded in 2012, K’antu Ensemble are known for their lively interpretations of historical music, bringing sounds of the past vividly into the present. They have toured extensively across the UK, with highlights including concerts at St Martin-in-the-Fields and live BBC Radio 3 broadcasts from the Southbank Centre, alongside international tours to Egypt, Romania, Hungary, and Germany. They also enjoy presenting interactive family workshops for the National Trust.
The concerts listed below are designed for 2–4 performers and are ideal for smaller, intimate venues, where audiences can get up close to the ensemble’s beautiful replica instruments and experience the music in an engaging, immediate way. These programmes work equally well as traditional concerts or as interactive workshops, with opportunities for audience participation, as shown in some of the accompanying videos.
Renaissance Roadshow
Renaissance Roadshow is a lively and accessible introduction to the music of Shakespeare’s England, inspired by the travelling performers of the time. Performed by a trio of K’antu Ensemble’s award-winning musicians, the programme features catchy tunes, elegant dances, and expressive songs that would once have entertained audiences in courts, homes, and taverns. Along the way, the musicians share the surprising stories of how these sounds travelled across Europe and beyond. Engaging, atmospheric, and easy to enjoy, this concert brings Renaissance music to life for everyone.
Midwinter Merriment
A warm and welcoming winter concert for all ages, Midwinter Merriment celebrates the festive season through music old and new. Alongside familiar carols, audiences are invited to discover where some of our most-loved songs come from, as well as to hear more unusual and lesser-known seasonal music from across the centuries. With friendly introductions, gentle audience participation, and a relaxed atmosphere, this is a perfect festive concert for families, community groups, and anyone looking to celebrate midwinter through music.
Music through the Ages
Designed especially for curious listeners, Music Through the Ages blends early instruments and singing styles with both historical popular music and well-known modern pop tunes. No prior knowledge is needed — the musicians guide the audience through what you’re hearing in a relaxed, inclusive way. Alongside the music, they demonstrate their beautiful replicas of historical instruments, bringing their sounds and stories to life. Familiar melodies are given a historical twist, inviting audiences of all ages to sing, move, and enjoy discovering how music from the past connects with the sounds we know today.
Historical Ceilidh Events
Historical Ceilidh Events are K’antu Ensemble’s high-energy, joy-filled celebrations of Renaissance and early folk dance, where history leaps off the page and onto the dance floor. Inspired by the social dances of Tudor and Jacobean England, these events blend infectious rhythms, live historical instruments, and an expert dance caller to guide guests through circles, reels, and branching formations once enjoyed in great halls and village greens alike. The programme balances authenticity with accessibility, creating an atmosphere that is vibrant, inclusive, and irresistibly fun.
Contact Us
Get in touch to discuss quotes, repertoire, programme options, and availability. If this button does not work for you, please email info@kantu-ensemble.co.uk
Read our reviews
"An equally extraordinary and entertaining evening, which ended with an enthusiastic applause and an encore." Michael Caspar, Göttinger Tageblatt, Germany
"My expectations of super repertoire and skilled musicianship on an array of instruments were amply fulfilled - but I had not anticipated that two standout voices would be so ably supported by the others to create a rich, vocal sound, nor the sheer joie de vie of these musicians, revelling in their music making. Kantu's concert was musically enchanting, fresh and fun - and an absolute delight. Highly recommended." Jill Tomalin, Totnes Early Music Society
“K’antu’s music brought Hatfield House’s history to life — it felt like stepping back in time.” – Loretta & David
"A quirky twist on pop classics — everyone was smiling, dancing, and asking where we found them!” – Kat & Nick
"Working their magic!" Max Reinhardt, BBC Radio 3
"K'antu Ensemble is a breath of fresh air: early music presented with beguiling virtuosity and inventiveness.” Howard Skempton, Composer
“A thoroughly enjoyable experience that took the audience on a ‘journey’ to times past. The music was played on replica instruments with both skill and ease. Informative and pleasing…you are guaranteed to return from this ‘journey’ with an uplifted spirit.” Heba El-Rafey, Director, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Egypt
“Our first dance was truly unforgettable — the dancing master led us and our guests through a beautiful choreography that made everyone feel part of the moment.” Jess & Rob
"K'antu performed to a packed house. The expertise with which K'antu delivered its Shakespeare inspired programme was matched only by the passion and energy exuded by each individual performer. The audience was electrified and captivated in equal measure." Nicholas Boyd-Vaughan, Concert Manager, St Martin-in-the-Fields