Van Morrison and Gregory Porter are the first names to be announced for the first night of Nocturne at Blenheim Palace on 25 June 2015. The event sees music return to Blenheim Palace’s  Great Court for the first time in ten years, with more concerts to be announced soon.

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Nocturne at Blenheim Palace is the first joint venture from Neapolitan Live Events, the creators of the critically acclaimed Love Supreme Jazz Festival, and U-Live the new live music division of Universal Music Group.

The event will not only bring some of the world’s greatest musicians and performers to the stately palatial surroundings, but will also provide one of the best midsummer concert experiences with champagne receptions, fine-dining and banquet packages available inside the State Rooms including the stunning Long Library, The Orangery and waterside picnicing in the palace grounds.

The 12th Duke of Marlborough commented, I look forward to once again opening the gates of Blenheim Palace to these brilliant musicians and singers. The palace was meant to inspire as a location and the music in the Great Court will bring a new dimension of wonderment to to our family’s history.

Ciro Romano, Neapolitan Live Events said: “It is a huge honour to be entrusted by the Duke of Marlborough to bring music back to this unique palace. We are thrilled that we have secured Van Morrison to return to Blenheim Palace for the first time since his historic performance in 2004 and also Gregory Porter whose career I have personally followed since first seeing him perform in small clubs in London only a few year ago. Both acts perfectly realise our vision to bring the greatest talent to Britain’s greatest palace.”

Sally Davies at U-Live said, “Our team at U-Live have been searching for the perfect venue and partner for the best quality music experience. Blenheim Palace and our partnership with Neapolitan Live realises the ambition. Nocturne will be a spectacular series of evenings of stunning performances in the most beautiful location.”

Tickets on-sale Friday 13 February Prices start at £60

Packages include:

The Orangery – Drinks and Gourmet Reception

Champagne and sumptuous selection of small plates served in The Orangery during interval 

Includes pre-concert drinks, interval and post-concert drinks.

The Long Library – Seated fine dining

Pre-concert drinks in the saloon followed by 2 course dinner in the Long Library and post-concert drinks.

Details of a special bus service to and from Oxford Station to the Palace to be announced soon.