Visitors to the Parsonage this autumn are promised a new and evocative experience. Linger is a musical installation by Irish contemporary classical composer Ailís Ní Ríain, comprising six new pieces written and performed on the Brontë family piano. Each work reflects the essence of a different room, composed in response to time spent by the artist at the Parsonage.

The installation breaks new ground at the museum as Linger is the first piece of music to be composed for the Parsonage and in particular for the family’s instrument. Also of significance, it offers audiences a rare opportunity to hear the Brontë piano, a treasured item of the museum’s collection.

The installation will be launched alongside a new 13-track album comprising the six room compositions and other original work featuring performances by leading new music improvisers Seth Bennett, Sylvia Hinz and Kelly Jayne Jones. The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë provides the inspiration for an additional four soundscape pieces and a song performed by Bradford-born singer-songwriter Tasmin Archer.

Linger is part of the Brontë Society’s contemporary arts programme, which is supported by Arts Council England. Lauren Livesey, Arts Officer at the Parsonage, added:

“We’re truly thrilled to be working with Ailís and it has been fascinating to see and hear the development of her response to the Brontë collection and legacy. Linger is a truly unique work and I think the fact that it was composed on and for the Brontë family piano will be of especial interest for all our visitors.”

Linger opens at the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Haworth on Saturday 10 October and will run until 3 January 2016. More information on the Brontë Parsonage Museum website and here.