From vision to reality
Two short years ago it was an idea; this time next week it will be happening.
The stage is set for the inaugural Southwell Music Festival at the August Bank Holiday (22-25 August): the final preparations are taking place and most of the tickets that are for sale have been sold.
Now we eagerly await the arrival of the dozens of very talented musicians who will bring the entire enterprise to life and give it meaning. Every programme is full of the most wonderful music and I can’t wait to hear the music making that is in prospect when these great performers get together.
I invite you to give our musicians a very warm welcome – and here I thank, in particular, those who are most generously playing host to our players and singers – involving our visitors in the community in a special way and making their stay all the more memorable.
Thank you to everyone who has been with us on this journey of preparation – from initial, formative conversations to our launch in the Minster last October and on into the period of detailed preparation in which widespread interest and generous support have given the entire project a most encouraging momentum.
If you have not already booked please contact the Box Office (01636 812933): there may be a few seats available, not least for The Creation on Saturday 23rd August. However more than half the events in the programme are free, including the excellent Fringe programme. Full programme details are available here.
We also invite you to visit the Southwell Artists’ Open Studios (Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th): for details of their brilliant event see here.
One way or another this will be a Bank Holiday to remember. And talking of souvenirs, don’t leave without picking up a copy of the brilliant 100 page Souvenir Programme Book which will be available from the Cathedral Shop from Wednesday 20th August, and at all Festival events, for £5. Crammed with information about the music, the performers, Southwell and much more, it’s worth every penny.
Another reason to buy a copy is that it contains details of seven restaurants, pubs and other hostelries which have attractive special offers for Festival goers on presentation of the Programme Book.
We hope you have an outstanding Bank Holiday weekend at the Southwell Music Festival.
Marcus Farnsworth
Founder and Artistic Director
