the occasion the Bermuda Academy of Music is hosting a dinner and concert at the Carriage House in St. George's, close to Mr. Moore's former residence on Old Maid's Lane.

In addition to fine food, the 15-strong, all-female Bermuda Chamber Choir will perform songs set to Moore's poetry. Choir soloists are Elca Maranzana, Vernelda Perinchief and Sue Johnston. John York Skinner will also be a soloist, and accompany the choir on piano.

Through the influence of the Earl of Moira, Moore came to Bermuda in the winter of 1803-4 to work as Registrar of the Court of the Vice Admiralty of Bermuda where, he wrote, his duties were to "overhaul the accounts of skippers and their mates''.

His gifts for singing and playing, his wit and good nature made him a social favourite here, not least with the ladies, and such was his close association with Walsingham House, both in song and story, that to this day the Hamilton Parish building is known as Tom Moore's house.

During his long career, Moore set many of his poems to music, both traditional Irish melodies and his own compositions. Over the years European composers, including Mendelssohn, Schumann, Beethoven and Berlioz, created music around his words.

Bermuda Academy of Music principal and Chamber Choir director Graham Garton has assembled many of these songs, and arranged several especially for the Choir. He has also set to music one of the poet's little-known works: Exquisite Scorn.

The songs to be performed on Saturday night will reflect a variety of styles and moods, while narrator Ray Moore will provide interesting insights into the poet's life and times.

Tickets ($70 including dinner) must be purchased in advance, and are currently being sold at Piano Plus, the Harbourmaster, Meyer Travel, or by calling the Bermuda Academy of Music at 296-2289.