It's not often that people are asked to bring their instruments to a musical performance but on Jan. 13 the faculty of Langley Community Music School is hosting an interactive workshop.

"Bring your guitar to try out some of the tricks of the trade, or come to listen to the music we'll perform," said BJ Block, a guitar faculty member.

"Whether you're just starting out, or are looking to reach the next level in your playing - this is an evening not to be missed."

The free workshop runs 7: 30-9 p.m. and features Block along with faculty Ray Pullen, Tim Stacey, Paul MacDermot, and Sam Cartwright in a workshop that will showcase styles such as rock, jazz, blues, fusion and classical.

Those who want to take a step back in time may want to check out the Jan. 21 show by Marc Destrubé, violin, Natalie Mackie, viola da gamba, and Byron Schenkman, harpsichord.

Starting at 7: 30 p.m. the trio will perform pieces by Marin Marais, JeanPhilippe Rameau, and one of Francois Couperin's Concerts Royaux, music from the Baroque era that would have been heard during the reign of France's Sun King Louis XIV.

"The excessively vain and egomaniac Louis XIV, who dubbed himself the 'Sun King,' stated, 'L'état c'est moi' (I am the State). He utilized music and the arts to celebrate his 'glory' and to establish his mark with a most lasting impression of his grandeur," explained Elizabeth Bergmann, the LCMS artistic director.

Both shows are at the Rose Gellert Hall at LCMS, 4899 207th St.

For more information or to book, call 604-534-2848. Tickets for Jan. 21 are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $16 for students.

. More at www.langleyadvance.com