VIDEO: Orchestra performs grandfather's recently discovered Christmas song

‘The Holly Tree’ overture was composed by Stuart B Leonard, the grandfather of Worthing Philharmonic Orchestra’s flute player Marion Peskett.

Stuart died in 1956 before Marion was born, and it is the only piece of music written by him that still exists after his other compositions were discarded.

It was re-discovered a year ago, and will be performed by Marion and her fellow musicians for the first time at the orchestra’s Christmas concert at Worthing Assembly Hall on Sunday at 3pm.

Marion said: I am so excited that the WPO are willing to perform this one precious piece of his orchestral music that has survived.”

Musical talent must run in the family, as Stuart had an impressive CV.

Marion said: “I was told that he was an extremely gifted musician. He was an organ scholar at Merton College in Oxford obtaining an M.A. and went on to The Royal College of Music where he was taught by Ralph Vaughan Williams and Gustav Holst, both of whom wrote that Grandpa was an excellent pupil.”

He graduated and then became organist of Wellington House followed by Director of Music at Canford School in Dorset.

Sunday’s concert will also include Christmas Carols, light Christmas songs and music by Victor Hely-Hutchinson and Ralph Vaughan Williams.

Dominic Grier will be conducting the orchestra and The Boundstone Chorus and Sompting Village School Choir.

To book tickets, click here.

Have you checked out our new Christmas section yet?

It’s packed with ideas and tips to ensure you make the most out of the festive season.

There’s recipes, suggestions for presents and everything from choosing your tree to recycling your packaging and paper.

Go to www.worthingherald.co.uk/christmas/