The group's third season will begin with the St Petersburg String Quartet bringing two Czech quartets, two British quartets and the Royal Quartet of Warsaw to the Pump Room on October 3.

Following almost two decades of successful concerts in Leamington and Warwick, Midlands choir Ex Cathedra will perform songs of the Renaissance composer Lassus at St Mary's church in Warwick on October 7.

Other highlights in the early part of the group's winter season include concerts by St Petersburg choir Musica Petropolitana, The Rose Consort of Viols and The York Waits.

Festival director Richard Phillips said: "I am particularly pleased to be reviving the early music scene in Warwick.

"During the 1990s and up to quite recently, the town was recognised nationally as one of the great centres for music ranging from Medieval to classical periods, played by leading groups in what we describe as an historically informed way.

"In other words - re-producing sounds that the composers would recognise if brought back to earth."

For a programme of concerts and tickets visit the Bridge House Theatre at Warwick School, Myton Road or the Pump Room tourist information centre. Alternatively, call 776438 or visit:

www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk