John Treherne is a musician who specialises in period keyboard instruments, particularly the harpsichord. His ensemble 'Concert Royal' has been active since 1969; this quartet of musicians performs in a wide range of venues throughout the UK and has toured overseas, including performances throughout Europe, as well as North and South America. The group has produced 6 LPs, several cassettes and 9 CDs.

John is also active as a composer, writing music for the Gateshead Youth Orchestra, which he directs, as well as songs and instrumental pieces. He is currently working on a short opera 'The Laidley Worm of Spindlestone'.

John studied at Newcastle University with Dr Chalmers Burns and Christopher Wood; he holds a postgraduate degree though research into early 18th century music, as well as teaching and performing qualifications.

For the past twenty five years John has been employed in the award winning Gateshead Music Service, most recently as Head, in which capacity he directs a large team of visiting music teachers.

He was awarded the MBE for services to music education in the Queen's 80th
Birthday honours.

Today's concert will be the inaugural performance of a new harpsichord built by Andrew Wooderson.