Budleigh Music Festival

16/03/2025

Artist focus: The London African Gospel Choir.

Experience the transcendent vocal power of the London African Gospel Choir as they bring our 2025 Festival to an unforgettable conclusion.

Under the artistic direction of Bongani Magubane, this outstanding ensemble brings together talented singers and musicians from across the African continent, creating a joyous celebration that blends traditional African gospel with contemporary influences.

The centrepiece of their Budleigh performance will be their critically acclaimed reimagining of Paul Simon’s iconic album Graceland. Their fresh interpretation brings new depth to these beloved songs, infusing them with authentic African harmonies and rhythms that honour the album’s South African roots while creating something new.

Beyond Graceland, audiences will be treated to uplifting gospel classics delivered with the choir’s signature blend of soulful intensity and infectious energy.

“Their voices are angelically harmonious, their dancing exuberant, their musicianship accomplished.” - The Guardian

London African Gospel Choir will be headlining the FESTIVAL FINALE on Saturday, 5 July, 7:00pm at St Peter’s Church. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime musical experience to close our 2025 festival.

For more information head to www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk

11/03/2025

Seven unforgettable nights in Budleigh: from the Royal Marines Band with saxophonist Jess Gillam to the London African Gospel Choir's "Graceland" reimagined.

Experience award-winning virtuosos, Rachmaninov's transcendent Vespers, Schubert in a tavern setting, and more in Budleigh's perfect acoustic sanctuary. World-class artistry in an intimate setting.

The Bands of HM Royal Marines and Jess Gillam - A magnificent opening night featuring the renowned Royal Marines Band under Major Ian Davis, with the brilliant saxophonist Jess Gillam returning to Budleigh by popular demand.

Guido Sant'anna and Ariel Lanyi - The sensational 19-year-old Brazilian violinist Guido Sant'Anna, first South American winner of the Fritz Kreisler International Competition, performs with acclaimed pianist Ariel Lanyi.

Sir Stephen Hough - An evening with one of classical music's most distinguished pianists. Visiting professor at the Royal Academy of Music and recently seen as guest artist at the Last Night of the Proms, Sir Stephen brings his formidable artistry to Budleigh.

Armonico Consort: Rachmaninov Vespers - Following their triumphant 2023 Monteverdi performance, Armonico Consort returns to present Rachmaninov's hauntingly beautiful Vespers—considered by the composer himself to be his greatest work.

Schubert at the Red Hedgehog Tavern - ZRI ensemble presents Schubert's Quintet in C Major in a uniquely atmospheric performance that evokes Vienna's historic Red Hedgehog Tavern, a major concert venue during Schubert's lifetime.

An American Evening - Celebrate Independence Day with Bath Philharmonia, conductor Jason Thornton, and pianist Zeynep Ozsuca in an all-American programme of star-spangled works that delights music lovers of all ages.

London African Gospel Choir: Graceland Reimag - Our festival finale offers a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience with a ground-breaking reimagining of Paul Simon's iconic Graceland album under the artistic direction of Bongani Magubane.

Full programme details: https://www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk/events/category/evening-concerts/

07/03/2025

Artist Focus: Sir Stephen Hough in Concert

Fresh from his dazzling performance at the Last Night of the Proms, legendary, world-renowned pianist Sir Stephen Hough brings his extraordinary talent to the intimate setting of St Peter’s Church in Budleigh on July 1.

From Schubert to Stockhausen, Beethoven’s beloved Waldstein Sonata, to his own playful Mary Poppins arrangement - this promises to be an unforgettable evening of musical mastery.

Tickets from £10 Students & Under 18s special rates available!

More information and full line up: www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s finest pianists performing on a Steinway Model D in the beautiful acoustics of St Peter’s Church.

03/03/2025

From classical treasures to gypsy jazz: The 2025 Budleigh Music Festival daytime events are here!

Watch rising stars perform with the The Bands of HM Royal Marines, experience Michael Morpurgo's poetic take on Saint-Saëns, swing to La en Vie en Rose, enjoy accessible concerts, and bring the whole family for a musical treasure hunt across town. Something magical for every music lover.

AFTERNOON CONCERT with Devon Youth Wind Orchestra (DYWO). Experience the bright future of classical music as talented young musicians perform alongside the Band of the Royal Marines.

CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS - A sublime collaboration featuring Sir Michael Morpurgo reading from his poetic reimagining of Saint-Saëns' beloved work, accompanied by the exquisite cello playing of Clare O'Connell.

LA VIE EN ROSE - Back by popular request! Immerse yourself in sophisticated gypsy jazz and hot swing. Virtuosic interpretations of the 'Hot Club' style pioneered by Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli.

RELAXED CONCERT WITH ZRI (Zum Roten Igel) - An accessible performance featuring folk, klezmer and popular compositions in a less formal setting that welcomes those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere.

FAMILY DAY - A Musical Treasure Hunt - A thoughtfully designed series of participatory musical events throughout Budleigh (Keep an eye on our socials for more details!).

Full programme details, including dates and times: https://www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk/

27/02/2025

Emerging talent at Budleigh Music Festival 2025: Spotlight on our Daytime Concert Series

We're delighted to introduce the exceptional young artists performing in our intimate daytime concerts this summer:

LUMAS WINDS: A dynamic young wind quintet bringing fresh energy to classical masterworks and contemporary pieces. Their innovative programming promises to captivate audiences in our morning series.

RHOSSILI DUO: A vibrant guitar and flute ensemble exploring the passionate world of tango and dance music. Their concert, "The Last Tango", promises an engaging journey through rhythmic and melodic landscapes.

BONNIE SCOTT: A dynamic young harpist bringing fresh perspectives to modern and historical harps. Her innovative performances have graced prestigious venues, including The World Harp Congress, The Petworth Festival Proms, and The Wales International Harp Festival.

WILLIAM BRACKEN: A gifted pianist whose sensitive touch and intelligent programming have marked him as a rising star in the classical music world.

Join us for these intimate lunch time performances, offering a perfect start to your festival day. These concerts provide a unique opportunity to experience tomorrow's headliners in the beautiful setting of St Peter's Church.

Daytime Series: June 27 - July 5.

Details of performance times and programme coming soon.

20/02/2025

From Proms to Graceland: A Musical Journey Budleigh Music Festival 2025 (June 27 - July 5)

We are excited to announce an extraordinary line-up for this summer's Budleigh Music Festival, featuring world-class artists on Devon’s beautiful coast.

FEATURED ARTISTS
Stellar performances from:
• Sir Stephen Hough - fresh from his unforgettable performance at the Last Night of the Proms.
• The Band of HM Royal Marines Plymouth joined by saxophonist Jess Gillam, who will be playing Escapades (from Catch Me If You Can) by John Williams among other works.
• London African Gospel Choir – A powerful and uplifting performance featuring gospel classics and their extraordinary rendition of Paul Simon’s Graceland.
• Guido Saint’Anna – South America’s young violin prodigy, whose virtuosity is captivating audiences worldwide.
• Armonico Consort – Returning after a dazzling performance in 2023, this inspirational chamber choir will present Rachmaninov’s Vespers.
• One Piano Four Hands – Two gifted pianists from the prestigious Liszt Music Academy in Budapest will be performing Mahler’s Symphony No1, as a piano duet.
• Bath Philharmonia with Zeynep Ozuska – Featuring an all-American programme conducted by Jason Thornton, with Sacha Rattle on clarinet.
• ZRI (Zum Roten Igel) – A fascinating journey into the tavern music of 19th-century Vienna, exploring Schubert’s Quintet with folk influences and an eclectic instrumental ensemble.
• Sir Michael Morpurgo and cellist Clare O’Connell together in his version of The Carnival of the Animals.
Look out for our Daytime Recital Series announcement in the next few days.

Nine unforgettable days of music in the heart of Budleigh Salterton.

Tickets for Budleigh Music Festival go on sale to Festival Friends on April 2 and on general sale on April 11.

More information here: https://www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk/events/

16/02/2025

The countdown begins. In just 4 days, we'll reveal our spectacular lineup for Budleigh Music Festival 2025 🎵

From humble beginnings in 2005, when visionaries Roger and Brenda Bowen dreamed of bringing arts to our seaside town, to today's celebrated festival - we've come a long way.

Join us for our 20th-anniversary celebration, featuring nine days of extraordinary performances in the heart of beautiful Budleigh Salterton. June 27 - July 5 2025

Stay tuned... something special is coming!

14/02/2025

Experience Elgar like never before! Tickets are available now for our choral workshop.

Join us for an extraordinary workshop led by our Artistic Director, the brilliant Jason Thornton (also Bath Philharmonia's Music Director), as we dive into a rare choral arrangement of Elgar's magnificent "Sea Pictures."

This takes place on June 27, from 10 am to 6 pm, culminating in a special showcase performance with our Festival Children's Choir.

Your £27 ticket includes:
Loan of a score
Refreshments throughout the day
A chance to perform at our 20th-anniversary festival!

Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with one of Britain's finest conductors and be part of our celebration! (It’s also the perfect opportunity to buy a Valentine's gift your singing loved one will never forget. Hint, hint).

Limited spots are available. Book here now!
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/budleigh-salterton/st-peters-church/choral-workshop-led-by-jason-thornton/e-zvpvod

03/02/2025

Love singing choral music? Well, we have a treat for you this Valentine's Day!

Booking opens on February 14 for our special choral workshop - an inspiring day of music-making.

On June 27, you can join renowned conductor Jason Thornton (our Artistic Director and Music Director of Bath Philharmonia for a day of exploring a rarely heard choral arrangement of Elgar’s “Sea Pictures”.

£27 includes your score and refreshments. The workshop starts at 10am, and culminates in a 5pm showcase performance alongside our Festival Children's Choir.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to perform at our 20th anniversary Festival!

Booking opens on February 14, pop it in your diary; it’s going to be a busy one!

30/01/2025

Throwback Thursday! There were so many incredible highlights from last year’s Festival that it’s hard to pick just one to reflect on for .

But we’ve settled on internationally-acclaimed concert pianist Benjamin Grosvenor who gave a breathtaking performance in the wonderful setting of St Peter’s Church. It included one of the finest ever performances of Liszt’s B Minor Sonata, and no fewer than three encores that brought the audience to their feet.

What were the highlights of last year’s Festival for you? Tell us in the comments!

22/01/2025

In case you missed it! We’re thrilled to welcome Bob Chilcott, renowned composer, conductor, and choral ambassador, as our new Festival Patron!

He was introduced to our Festival Friends at a celebratory lunch at the end of last year. Bob’s passion for music and his incredible career as a leading figure in the choral world perfectly align with our festival’s mission to inspire and delight audiences. His support will help us continue to bring extraordinary musical experiences to Budleigh.

To find out more visit www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk/news

17/01/2025

At Budleigh Music Festival, we’re passionate about making classical music accessible to young people. 🎼

Through our events with young musicians and our outreach programmes, we aim to inspire the next generation with workshops, performances, and opportunities to engage with world-class musicians.

Whether it's providing opportunities for upcoming artists, working with organisations like Future Talent, or offering tickets for young audiences, we’re dedicated to opening the door to the transformative power of classical music.

This year’s Festival, which begins on June 27, will feature even more chances for young people to experience the joy of live music. Stay tuned for details and join us in nurturing the future of classical music!

For more information, visit www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk

10/01/2025

Do you want to get priority access to tickets and exclusive updates? Become a Festival Friend!

Friends enjoy early ticket booking from April 2, ahead of general sales on April 11.

Start your 2025 off with music in your heart—join us in celebrating two decades of bringing exceptional artists to Budleigh.

Visit budleighmusicfestival.co.uk to learn more and become a Friend today.

06/01/2025

📣 Make a date in your diary for this year’s Budleigh Music Festival!🎼

It takes place from June 27 - July 5, 2025 and it promises to be an extra special one, as this year we are celebrating our 20th anniversary.

Prepare for nine unforgettable days of world-class music, community, and celebration in the heart of Budleigh.

Get priority booking by becoming a Festival Friend and make sure you’ve signed up to our newsletter to hear the latest news! Visit www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk

23/12/2024

🎄✨ Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of our followers✨🎄

Your incredible support over the last two decades has allowed us to bring world-class musicians to our wonderful town, and we couldn’t be more grateful. As we step into our 20th anniversary year, we’re working hard to curate an inspiring lineup for our Festival, which takes place from June 27 - July 5.

🎟 Tickets go on sale:
April 2: Exclusive access for Festival Friends
April 11: General sale

Become a Friend today to secure your spot for an unforgettable nine days of music and celebration. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!

Visit our website at www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk

22/11/2024

📣📣 Exciting announcement 📣📣 We’re delighted to announce that Bob Chilcott, one of the UK’s best loved composers and choral directors, is now our Patron.

Bob already knows us well, having staged two sell-out choral workshops, both of which culminated in public performances. The announcement was made at a celebratory lunch for Festival Friends at The Holt at Budleigh Salterton Cricket Club.

Our Chair Kate Somerby said: “It is wonderful to welcome Bob as our new Patron. He is a genuinely inspirational composer and choir leader, which anyone who has joined one of our workshops over the last couple of years will attest to.”

And Bob Chilcott added: “I am delighted to take on this role...it is a fantastic Festival with great energy, right here in Budleigh Salterton.”

Read more about Bob's appointment on our website at https://www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk/

16/09/2024

We had such a fabulous time at this year’s festival thanks to the amazing array of world-class musicians, tireless volunteers and happy audiences. What a great opportunity to look back on what we’ve achieved, and see how the festival is reaching young people whilst delighting our Friends and supporters here in East Devon.
Plans are already well-advanced for Festival 2025 which will be our 20th anniversary. If you haven’t already, then please consider joining the Friends of Budleigh Music Festival https://www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk/support-the-festival/festival-friends/friends-form/

This is "Budleigh Music Festival highlights video 2024" by Budleigh Music Festival on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

08/07/2024

We had the most incredible week here in Budleigh Salterton for this year's Festival.

Were you in the audience for the world premiere of Ataya Sonata? It was composed specially for the incredibly talented young musicians who are nurtured by the charity Future Talent by the musical phenomenon that is Seckou Keita.

More than 200 local schoolchildren witnessed this stunning performance. We hope they're inspired to pick up an instrument themselves now!

And Seckou returned to the stage of St Peter's Church in the evening to perform African Rhapsodies, accompanied by members of Bath Philharmonia, completing a truly wonderful day.

Seckou Keita Music
Future Talent