LightGarden, consisting of musician and instrumentalist David Moss and Masha Kaestner, recently won a PRSATOM award for the quality and originality of their music.

The prestigious awards are made each year by a special panel of music industry experts appointed by the PRS Foundation, which acknowledges the achievements of 'Advanced Technical Originators of Music' based in the UK.

David and Masha were both classically trained, on violin and piano, with the pair having a free and creative attitude towards music and they have explored and experimented with many types and styles.

Between 1993 and 2004, David led acoustic/folk/roots trio Banoffi through various incarnations performing nationally and abroad to wide acclaim.

He has recorded and performed with many other musicians and gained a broad spectrum of experience musically and as a performer. David also gives workshops teaching the techniques of Mongolian overtone chanting.

Masha's creative explorations have included music, drama, writing, and drawing.

She began her classical training at music school followed by keyboard experimentations with several rock bands, writing musical pieces for a choir, a summer theatre and giving piano tuition.

Having raised a family, she is picking up these musical threads again, writing pieces coloured by her German and Russian roots and providing skilful arrangements to the pieces she and David write together.

Both musicians say they play with their full heart, working to produce "high quality music radiating joy, presence and beauty."

The pair will be performing at The Black Swan Folk Club, Peasholme Green at 8pm on Thursday in York.

And on Saturday 12 April, they will be taking to the stage at The Coliseum in Whitby at 8pm.

Tickets are priced £8/£7 and there will be support from didgeridoo maestro Kev Howard.

To book tickets call (01947) 825000.