THE sounds of the late 16th century filled Oxford University’s music faculty at lute players gathered for a workshop.

About 10 players joined leading lutenist Lynda Sayce to try out traditional lute tunes and folk music.

St Hugh’s College graduate Ms Sayce, who lives near Oxford, led the session on Saturday.

She said: “We met in the music faculty off St Aldate’s and tried out traditional lute music and ballads – it was great fun.”

Dr Gravestock, 57, a GP from Ashby-de-la Zouch, Leicestershire, said: “There are about 750 members of the Lute Society and I’m one of them.

“Lynda is a very well-known lutenist and it was a good opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and take part in a workshop like this.

“My lute was made in 1993 and it’s a copy of an instrument from 1583 – it’s insured for about £2,000. A lot of the most popular lute songs were published at the end of the 16th century. They are the greatest hits for people who play the lute.”