RICHARD PARR José Carreras, regarded as one of the world’s greatest tenors, is to star in an open-air concert in the magnificent setting of Holkham Hall. It will be the first of two outdoor summer concerts, with the second bringing pianist and singer Jools Holland to the grounds of the famous stately home in North Norfolk.

RICHARD PARR

José Carreras, regarded as one of the world's greatest tenors, is to star in an open-air concert in the magnificent setting of Holkham Hall. It will be the first of two outdoor summer concerts, with the second bringing pianist and singer Jools Holland to the grounds of the famous stately home in North Norfolk.

It is expected that up to 10,000 people will attend each of the concerts on September 1 and 2 with the 18th-century Palladian home of the Earl of Leicester as the stunning backdrop.

Holkham Estate considers securing Carreras, regarded as one of the most popular tenors of his generation and more popularly famous as one of the Three Tenors, for its first concert, is a major coup.

Last night Viscount Coke said of the concerts: “We are so excited about these first concerts at Holkham. To have secured two such famous performers in our first year is a real coup and the park in front of the Hall should be perfect for these events as it is a natural amphitheatre.”

On Friday, September 1, one of the world's greatest tenors, José Carreras, who gives sell-out shows all over the world, will be accompanied by the City of London Sinfonia, conducted by David Gimenez. Tickets cost £37.50 each.

The next evening there will be a high-impact performance by Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, featuring Gilson Lavis and guest vocalists Sam Brown and Ruby Turner. Holland promises to light up Holkham Hall with is unmistakable boogie-woogie style with is sure to have everyone on their feet. Tickets for this performance are priced at £32.50 each.

Both shows will end with a fantastic firework spectacular .

Demand for tickets, which go on sale immediately, is expected to be high so early booking is advised.

With such large numbers of people expected at the concerts there could be traffic delays on the roads around the estate but the routes to the park entrances will be well sign-posted.

Viscount Coke said that if the weather is good people may want to make it a day out with a visit to Holkham beach, lunch at the Victoria, a visit to Wells in the afternoon before returning to Holkham for the evening concerts.

Tickets can be purchased from the Ancient House Gift Shop in Holkham village (cash/cheque transactions only) or by calling the credit card hotline on 08700 667733.

There will be a limited number of VIP packages available where guests can enjoy exclusive access to the terraces in front of the Hall.

Details of these can be obtained the Front of House organisation on 0161 928 2233.