An enriched programme for audiences in the Kent community and beyond, exploring six centuries of music

Music@Malling returns with an eclectic programme spanning the Renaissance through to the music of our time. Running from 20th-28th September 2024, Music@Malling presents an innovative programme of concerts and outreach held in historic venues in an area of outstanding natural beauty and fascinating heritage. 

Featured contemporary composers include Deborah Pritchard, Brian Elias, Gavin Bryars, John Woolrich, Sir George Benjamin, Stephen McNeff and Alec Roth who will introduce their works and place them into their musical context.

Among the many highlights is an exploration of Schoenberg through the prism of 19th century Romanticism with concerts by Chamber Domaine and Mark Padmore CBE, The Smith Quartet and Fidelio Trio.

Fretwork will be returning performing consorts by Lawes, Gibbons and Purcell and contemporary works by John Woolrich and Sir George Benjamin’s ground breaking On Silence (1989) – the first new work to be written for viols since the 17th century – featuring celebrated mezzo soprano, Susan Bickley.

The Marian Consort will present new works by Deborah Pritchard and John Woolrich alongside music by Purcell, Tompkins and Blow.  The concert includes a side-by-side project with local secondary schools culminating in a performance of Purcell – Remember Not.

World premieres include new works by Gavin Bryars for the Smith Quartet and Elsa Torp and Deborah Pritchard – Heart of Light for Solo Violin inspired by the Marc Chagall windows of All Saints’ Church, Tudeley – one of Music@Malling’s favourite venues.

“I am delighted that Music@Malling returns with such a vibrant and interesting programme bringing outstanding musicians into the heart of the community.  I am also glad (and relieved) that we are able to continue our outreach work in the local community, particularly focusing on nurseries; primary and secondary schools in local areas of urban and rural deprivation. All our lunch-time concerts will have whole class groups attending from these schools as part of an ongoing programme of workshops and concerts – engaging people who would not otherwise have access to fabulous live music, creative opportunities and the many benefits these bring. Having grown up in West Malling, it gives me great pleasure to ensure that people have access to these kinds of activities that strengthen communities and increase well-being.” Thomas Kemp – Artistic Director

Find more information about Music@Malling on their website here. You can also buy tickets here.