For many years now, James Bowman has been one of the world's leading countertenors; his name is synonymous with musical excellence whether on the concert platform, the opera stage or the recording studio, writes Neil Crutchley.

In fact he has made nearly 200 recordings in the course of his career. His work ranges from early music to contemporary, and he has been associated with such composers as Benjamin Britten and Richard Rodney Bennett.

It's not often we have the chance of hearing Bowman in Leicester, but happily he is appearing twice within couple of weeks – once in the city and once in the county.

The first occasion is on Saturday when he is the guest artist at the Leicestershire Chorale's concert to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the birth of Henry Purcell, at 7.30pm in the Church of St James the Greater, London Road.

It is taking place on the very date of Purcell's untimely death in his mid-thirties. The programme will include major works including the Te Deum and Jubilate, Hear my Prayer O Lord, I was Glad, and the ode, Welcome to all the Pleasures. Bowman will take solos in the above as well as performing other solos during the evening.

The Chorale will be joined by the Saraband Consort and the conductor is Tom Williams. Tickets cost £12 or £10, students £5, accompanied school students, £1.

Eleven days later, Bowman will be back for a recital in St Catharine's Church, Houghton-on-the-Hill, where, with his regular concert partner, lutenist Dorothy Linnell, he will present "Green Growth the Holly", a programme of Christmas and Elizabethan music for lute and countertenor. The intimate setting is ideal for this type of music and the evening, part of the Houghton Music club programme, promises to be a memorable one.

The recital, which is open to all, begins at 7.45pm and tickets cost £12 or £10 for club members. To book call 0116 241 2849 or 0116 241 4780.