HAVING spent almost three decades programming music at Lighthouse in Poole, Graham Stansfield steps down this week and is looking forward to his retirement.

His farewell concert at the venue promises to be a very special event, with a mixture of music and readings designed to entertain, educate and delight.

Expect to hear wry ironic poetry from Wendy Cope, early music tenor star Andrew King and superb lutenist David Miller, virtuoso violin playing from Oliver Lewis and superb English song from soprano Sarah Leonard.

There will also be piano playing from Stephen Gutman and David Owen Norris, sociable songs from Highcliffe Junior Choir, tight male close harmonies from Southern Union Chorus plus tributes to Fats Waller and Duke Ellington.

Other highlights include Gabriel Wolf reading Dylan Thomas at his funniest, alto sax virtuoso Matt Wates decorating with infinite artistry, a beautiful ballad with Vibraphone genius Jim Hart, as well as Johnny Dankworth’s favourite bassist Malcolm Creese.

Graham said: “I think the evening will have a lovely feel to it and will be very varied, with music and words changing in style every 10 minutes.

“This means that if there is a piece you don’t like, there will be something either just before or after that you will.”

Graham added that he was particularly looking forward to seeing the audience’s reaction to the music.

“It will be interesting to see how they react to the change between the early music and the music written last year.

“It will also be interesting for people who have never been to a classical concert to see what a range of music there is.”

Graham Stansfield Retirement Concert is at Lighthouse in Poole on November 30 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12 plus concessions on 0844 406 8666.