Five centuries. Five senses.

On the weekend of 7th and 8th August 2026, Sand opened its doors for the first time in years and invited the public to enjoy two fabulous evening of classical music, outstanding food, and incredible surroundings.  

An ensemble of world-class musicians.

A delicious taste of history.

The scents and scenery of the gardens in a secluded Devon valley. 

And the Tudor splendour of Sand. 

‘In sweet music is such art’

The program

The music

Thanks to Matt’s professional career as a classical musician, he was able to create the Sand Ensemble for these two special nights. The ensemble brought together an exception group of musicians drawn from some of the UK’s leading orchestras, opera companies, and period-instrument ensembles. Their combined experience spanned solo performances, chamber music, and historically informed practice, making them the perfect musical residents of Sand for the weekend. The talent was comprised of:

  • Rowan Pierce - Soprano

  • David Juritz - Violin

  • Alun Darbyshire - Oboe

  • Simon Munday - Trumpet

  • Anhad Arora - Harpsichord

  • Robert Yeomans - Violin

  • Antonia Kesel - Violin

  • Vanessa McNaught - Viola

  • Jane Fenton - Cello

  • Matt Coman - Double Bass

Each night of the opening Gala celebrated a different theme, with Friday highlighting the English music of Handel and Purcell, and Saturday offering an Italian celebration led by the music of Vivaldi. As such, the menus reflected each nation.

On Friday, an English feast inspired by the finest seasonal produce was thoughtfully prepared and served by Pickle Shack, celebrating the rich traditions of British hospitality.

On Saturday, the Italian culinary team brought the spirit of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons to the table, creating an immersive journey through taste, scent, memory, and the changing seasons.

The food

Gala guest reviews

  • I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed the concert last night. The music was sublime and what a privilege to hear the musicians perform in such a lovely setting with excellent acoustics

    — Marion, Saturday

  • Your beautiful house and garden made it very special together with outstanding musicians performing such beautiful music. Excellent food too.

    — Jo, Saturday

  • From the moment we drove through the gates we felt welcomed and delighted to be included in such wonderful evening of music, food, wine and conversation in the beautiful setting of the restored house and gardens of Sand

    — Andrea, Saturday

  • Many congratulations on the 'opening gala' last Friday. We attended with our friends and were blown away by the quality of the event: the location, the food. attentive service and - especially - the music.

    — David, Friday

  • What a wonderful evening we had in your lovely home on Saturday. The ensemble played fantastic music and with such passion and brilliance! We loved the venue and it was great to see the musicians so close to the audience.

    — Jonathan and Gill, Saturday

  • A huge thank you for mounting a truly inspired and memorable multi-sensory event. The printed materials too were most welcome. The whole experience will resonate with me for a long time

    — John, Friday