Elgar Festival - orchestral, chamber, choral concerts and events for all the family, in Worcester and Malvern

Please refer to website for individual concert information and venue details.

One of the country’s most revered composers – Sir Edward Elgar (1857–1934) - and his musical legacy is celebrated at the annual Elgar Festival, which takes place in the heart of ‘Elgar Country’ – Worcester and Malvern - across the week closest to his birthday on 2 June, held at a number of integral venues of both historic interest and personal significance to the composer including Worcester Cathedral and Guildhall, St George’s RC Church and Great Malvern Priory.

The Festival offers a wide programme combining concerts of popular repertoire and new commissions performed by internationally recognised guest artists as well as the cream of the region’s musicians, with talks, masterclasses, workshops, film screenings and family-friendly events.

Amongst highlights this year are symphonic and ensemble concerts given by the Festival’s orchestra-in-residence - English Symphony Orchestra (ESO) - under their Principal Conductor and Festival Artistic Director, Kenneth Woods. World-renowned guest artists taking part include Raphael Wallfisch, Gareth Brynmor John, April Fredrick, Simon Callaghan and David Briggs. Featured Composer is Ian Venables.

All concerts at the Elgar Festival offer free entry for under 18s accompanied by full-paying adults. Many other events are free-of-charge including relaxed concerts, talks, film and an exhibition. Visit the website for full details.

(Photo, Michael Whitefoot)