MUSIC is set to bring two historic settings in North Wales to life this summer, in celebration of the region’s artistic heritage.

The National Trust Wales’ lawns and gardens in Conwy and Bangor, which once serenaded thousands of guests at garden parties, banquets and lavish soirees, will again come alive with the sound of music with live theatre and musical performances.

A children’s production will take place under the stars at Bodnant Garden, near Tal-y-Cafn, owned by the McLaren family in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A prominent name in the world of industry, politics and horticulture, the McLarens entertained high-profile guests at parties on the house’s famed gardens.

The estate was inherited by Lady Laura McLaren of Aberconwy in 1895, who created many unpublished sketches and plays which were performed by family and friends there.

An outdoor evening theatre production of the classic children’s story The Secret Garden will be held on the Front Lawn. Visitors should bring a rug and picnic, sit and enjoy.

The show takes place on August 12 from 6.30pm-10pm. Booking is essential, online or call 0344 2491895.

There will also be a series of choir workshops at Penrhyn Castle in Bangor, where music has played a powerful role in both celebration and protest in centuries passed. It was used by Côr y Penrhyn, the male voice choir, formed in the nearby quarry’s blue slate galleries in the 1880s.

There was also the Ladies Choir, born from unrest to sing in solidarity with strikers during the 1900-03 Penrhyn Great Strike. They raised money to feed their families shut out from the quarry by Lord Penrhyn.

The upcoming workshops, led by local musicians, will celebrate this heritage and get visitors inspired by nature and music.

The workshops take place from July 21-August 25, 10.30am-4pm. Booking is not needed but normal admission prices apply.

Every visit to the historic sites helps fund National Trust care for them for future generations to enjoy.

For more information about the events visit the National Trust Wales website.