25.06.2026
An enchanting afternoon of Indian classical music inspired by one of Derbyshire’s greatest love stories is coming to Elvaston Castle this summer.
Derby-based arts organisation Surtal Arts will present Summertime Raga on Saturday 4 July, a unique open-air concert featuring two of the UK’s rising stars of Indian classical music, sitar player Akash Parekar and tabla player Janan Sathiendran.
Set within the secluded surroundings of Elvaston’s Old English Garden, the performance takes inspiration from the extraordinary romance between Charles Stanhope, later the 4th Earl of Harrington, and Maria Foote, a celebrated actress whose devotion and creativity helped transform Elvaston into a place of beauty, imagination and escape. Rejected by sections of society yet unwavering in their commitment to one another, Charles and Maria created a world of their own at Elvaston – and now one of Britain’s most celebrated nineteenth-century landscape gardens. Their story of love, longing and devotion finds a powerful echo in the timeless traditions of Hindustani classical music.
Through a selection of evocative ragas associated with romance, yearning, remembrance and reunion, Summertime Raga will guide audiences through an emotional musical journey inspired by the changing moods of nature and the enduring power of love.
Nisha Nath, Chair of Surtal Arts, said:
“At Surtal Arts we are passionate about bringing diverse arts experiences to new audiences and presenting them in unexpected and inspiring locations. Elvaston Castle provides the perfect setting for Indian classical music, where history, nature and culture can come together in a truly memorable experience. We are also proud to champion emerging talent and to introduce some of the country’s most exciting young artists to Derbyshire audiences.”
Alison Buckley, Development Manager of Elvaston Castle Gardens Trust said:
“”The Elvaston Estate has long been a place where creativity, culture and heritage come together. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Surtal Arts to bring this unique performance to the Estate and to welcome new audiences to experience one of Derbyshire’s most remarkable historic landscapes. Events such as Summertime Raga help us share Elvaston’s stories in new and engaging ways, while supporting our vision to ensure that this special place remains accessible, valued and cared for by the community for generations to come.”
Financially supported by Arts Council of England, the event is suitable both for experienced followers of Indian classical music and for those discovering the genre for the first time. Audience members are encouraged to bring a cushion or blanket for seating on the grass, while a limited number of chairs will be available for visitors with mobility or health requirements.
To complete the event, traditional Indian snacks and masala chai will be available during the interval.
‘Summertime Raga’ takes place on Saturday 4th July, from 4pm to 6pm at Elvaston Castle Country Park and is suitable for anyone aged nine and above. With limited capacity in the intimate garden setting, early booking is recommended; tickets are £12 or £10 for concessions, (concessions include those who are students, senior citizens, unpaid carers and those aged under 18 years or those aged over 66 years). Elvaston Castle Country Park can be found on Borrowash Road, Elvaston, Derby DE72 3EP.
For more information or to book tickets please see: https://www.surtalarts.co.uk/event-details/summertime-raga
Submit your news items to editor@artsderbyshire.org.uk or fill out this news submission form.
You can also register as a member to list your arts business and events in our directory.
Find out what’s on with the Arts Derbyshire newsletter.
Artists, creatives, cultural providers, arts and health specialists – Sign up for one of our professional mailing lists.