Looking back at 2010…and forward to 2011

The London Bridge Ensemble had great fun making music with their two wonderful guests, Lucy Gould (violin) and Robert Plane (clarinet). Audiences were large and enthusiastic and, using the venue for a second year, the Discovery Centre felt like a real home for our event, with its intimate atmosphere, welcoming café space and friendly, helpful staff. Innovations included a very special late-night concert in St Lawrence Church (featuring the Brahms Clarinet Quintet) and the new festival club where convivial post-concert drinks and chat flourished.

Our masterclass was also extremely rewarding, working with two advanced duos from UK music colleges, and Sam Glazer and Jack Ross again produced really committed and creative work from local schoolchildren (augmented in concert by Lucy, Rob and Dan!)

Above all though, our chamber performances are at the heart of the festival and there was a wealth of music played, from duo to sextet, in a non-stop schedule. There was a poignant air as we finished the Brahms Piano Quintet, playing for the last time with Ben Nabarro, our violinist, but it was an inspiring weekend full of great works and breathtaking performances.

We are already planning the next festival, replete with new violinist and more guests. However, it will be no surprise to anyone that fundraising will be even more of a challenge than in previous years.  Tickets for our concert at Milner Hall to raise money for the festival are now on sale. If meanwhile you would like to support us, please do join our Friends scheme.

Dates for your diary

Gala Fundraisng Concert: Friday 19 November, 7.30pm at Milner Hall

2011 Festival: from Thursday 28 April – Sunday 1 May
We’ve ‘extended’ by launching on Thursday rather than Friday. More information later this autumn.