For a truly well-bred young nobleman the lute used to be almost as indispensable as the sword. At Loui XIII's court it enjoyed downright cult status. Consequently lutenists and lute makers were inspired and the results were remarkable. Based on new tunings and techniques the 17th century saw France developing its very own style of lutes; extremely refined playing with broken chords, extravagant savouring of timbral valour and resonances as well as instruments shining with striking decorative ornaments. The performer is as excitingly cool as the music: young lutenist Thomas Dunford has taken international concert halls, including New York's Carnegie Hall, by storm. The Ovid Gallery in the New Chambers serves as stylish setting for his performance.