FRIDAY 30th October 2027 – 3.30pm – 7.30pm
St Mary-Le-Savoy Church, 10 Sandwich Street, London WC1H 9PL
Can a glass of Viognier change the way you hear Debussy?
Join pianist Ann Martin-Davis and acclaimed wine writer Richard Lane for a fascinating afternoon exploring the connections between French wine, French piano music, memory, perception and synesthesia.
Richard will begin with an introduction to a selection of French wines, guiding you through key grape varietals while revealing some of the science behind taste, smell and sound. Together, we’ll explore how our senses interact and how flavour and aroma can influence our emotional response to music.
You will then have the opportunity to share a favourite piece of French music – whether one you know well or are currently learning – and discover how taste and smell might deepen both your own experience and that of your audience.
The afternoon concludes with a short recital by Ann, featuring music by Ravel, Debussy and Messiaen, accompanied by specially chosen wine pairings selected by Richard.
A unique event for music lovers, wine enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
About the presenters
Ann Martin-Davis is a pianist, teacher and presenter with a particular love of French piano repertoire. Her acclaimed album of Ravel is available on Guild.
Richard Lane DipWSET originally worked in health and science journalism and he still freelances for The Lancet. A crisp Sancerre sparked a passion that led Richard to become student of wine and the first blind person to qualify as a Wine and Spirit Education Trust educator.
The fee for is £90 which will include tea, coffee and cake on arrival, wine tasting throughout the afternoon, and the recital with associated apéro wine and canapés.