WHEN a classical accordionist and a jazz sax player meet, a vibrant, intriguing mix of music that crosses cultural boundaries ensues.

Borders musicians Paul Chamberlain and Michael Haywood are releasing their debut album 'First Impression' with a concert in Bowden Village Hall on Friday 29th April.

With a fresh take on world music Paul (accordion) and Michael (saxophone/violin/whistle/clarinet) take their instruments on an international tour - enjoy the sultry sounds of the Tango, the rhythmic drive of the Balkans, along with rip-roaring tunes from Russia and Scotland. Virtuoso playing and fresh musical ideas, Paul and Michael explore the potential of their instruments in a way that is exciting and engaging. They take the strength of each instrument’s traditions and blend them into their own unique brand of fusion music. The result is a vibrant, intriguing and occasionally explosive mix of music that crosses cultural boundaries.

Paul grew up in Bowden and his father was the peripatetic violin teacher in the borders schools for many years, whilst Michael who originally hails from Lockerbie has now settled in the borders and teaches music at Earlston High School. A common interest in traditional music brought them together. Whilst still maintaining these traditional roots, the combination of Michael's jazz influenced style, and Paul's classical training come together to create a dynamic album bursting with energy - the various instrumental combinations add even more to the diversity. There are also a couple of own compositions such as Michael's suite of tunes inspired by the famous Lewis Chessmen.

Paul Chamberlain was one of the first classical accordionists to graduate from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, where he studied with Djordje Gajic. A highly accomplished player with appearances at international music festivals such as Baltica Harmonica in St. Petersburg – Russia, Sata-Häme Soi Accordion festival in Ikaalinen – Finland, and performances in France, Italy, Greece, Bahrain and the USA. He has also released two previous solo albums - 'Classical Accordion' (2011) and 'Accordion Sensations' (2014) and is a founder member of the Scottish Tango Ensemble.

A virtuosic performer on many instruments, Michael Haywood gained an honours degree in folk and traditional music from Newcastle University with a major in wind instruments. He has since appeared in many of the country's leading venues including the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Sage Gateshead, The Barbican London, and has played on BBC Radio Scotland. Michael also spent three years working for Live Music Now! giving concerts across the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Tickets for the concert are £8 for adults, with free entry for U-16s and will be available at the door on the night. More information is available at www.chamberlain-haywood.com