Contrabass serpent recital marks St Cecilia's Hall milestone

MUSICAL instruments from Edinburgh University's collection have heralded the half-way point in a £6.5 million renovation of an historic venue in the city.

Builders Robert Paul and Ryan Quinn take a break to watch Tony George's copper serpent recital in the Concert Hall. Picture: Neil Hanna

The pieces were played during a “topping out” ceremony to celebrate progress in the restoration of St Cecilia’s Hall, Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert space.

Construction workers, including Builders Robert Paul and Ryan Quinn, right, plus students, staff and project supporters gathered for a recital on a 19th century contrabass serpent, performed by musician Tony George. The instrument dates from 1815.