This fascinating performance unites a master poet and adventurous musicians. First aired in Winchester’s 2007 Art & Mind Festival, it combines Paul Hyland’s compelling delivery of his thought-provoking poems on birth and death with compositions and improvisations by the players.

Paul Hyland is an award-winning poet and travel writer. His works include English topographical classics, travel books on Central Africa, India and Iberia, and, recently, the acclaimed historical work Ralegh's Last Journey. He wrote Getting into Poetry, described by Suzy Feay in Time Out as "essential reading - the guide to the contemporary poetry scene". His poems, plays, docu-dramas and features are frequently broadcast by the BBC. He has won a string of awards, and collaborated with photographers, musicians, composers and visual artists. He also has a parallel career as a magician, performing a one-man show called The Art of the Impossible.

Pianist/composer Alcyona’s music, though influenced by the likes of Thelonius Monk, Bartók and Messiaen, does not follow one particular style; she has developed her own distinctive and imaginative approach to composition and improvisation.

Robin Fincker is known for his rich sound and delicate phrasing. He leads the jazz group Outhouse and plays regularly in a trio with Alcyona and percussionist Paul Clarvis.

Malcolm Creese, Artistic Director of the Festival, is one of Europe’s most admired double bass players. When not fronting his Acoustic Triangle he works with the likes of John Williams, James Galway, the LSO, Cleo Laine and Sting.