Novelist and poet Ben Okri discusses his life and musical loves with author and broadcaster Paul Blezard. Members of the outstanding Orchestra of St John, conducted by John Lubbock, will perform Okri’s favourite pieces.

Okri is a Nigerian poet and novelist widely regarded as one of the foremost African authors of the post-modern period. His novel, The Famished Road, won the 1991 Booker Prize, and he has published several volumes of poetry, the most recent of which is Wild.

Lubbock is the founder and conductor of the Orchestra of St John. The orchestra’s aim is to bring together outstanding musicians who share an ethos of bringing music to people of all ages and from all walks of life. It has performed with world-famous soloists such as Dame Felicity Lott, Sir James Galway, Yuri Bashmet, Tasmin Little and Stephen Isserlis. Alongside its public performances, the orchestra gives around 40 concerts a year to autistic children and others with learning difficulties through the charity, Music for Autism, founded by Lubbock following the birth of his own autistic son. There will be a collection for Music for Autism during the interval.

This event lasts one hour and 40 minutes, including a 20-minute break during which wine will be served.

Supported by Sir Martin Smith and Dr Elise Becket Smith.