THE new eight-legged musical instrument by the name of the Octachord will be played for the first time on a British stage on Wednesday (3rd) at Brawby Village Hall, near Malton.

In the latest invasion of alien entertainment at The Shed, Yugoslavian inventor Robert Pravda will perform a new work by John de Simone, using his new instrument with eight electrically vibrating strings in the company of the Mondriaan Quartet.

In addition, this ground-breaking Dutch quartet will give a rare performance of two chamber works by jazz composer John Zorn, complemented by newly commissioned works from rising composers Richard Ayres and Toek Numan.

Licking his lips at the prospect of a musical encounter of the strangely jazz kind, Shed head Simon Thackray says: "This is a real musical adventure and a real honour to be able to stage such a high profile gig. This Contemporary Music Network tour takes in London, Southampton, Exeter, Leeds and... The Shed at Brawby. It's crazy but true. My own interest in sculpture and inventions means I'm especially excited by the arrival of the Octachord"

Tickets for Wednesday's 8pm concert cost £11 on 01653 668494.

Updated: 15:18 Thursday, February 26, 2004