Wymondham Music Festival 2008 - early information!

Our printed programme, covering all the musical events in Wymondham from May through to the end of July, is now out. If you haven’t got yours yet, keep an eye on this website for dates and information about some of the main events organised by the WMF committee.  Here are just a few highlights:

Concerts in Wymondham Abbey:

David Childs Quartet starring one of the world’s finest euphonium players. In 2000 he was the first ever euphonium soloist to win the BBC Young Musician of the Year, and has continued to wow audiences with his astonishing technique, extrovert musicality and engaging stage presence. For those not familiar with a euphonium, it’s the smaller brother of the tuba. It’s one of the most sweet-toned of the brass instrument family and, in expert hands, has an amazing four octave range. Saturday 21 June, 19:30

‘Spanish Spice’ performed by Eclipse - an exciting programme based on 17th century Spanish dance music, drawing on flamenco and other influences. This fusion creates an exciting musical and visual experience, linking the world of ethnic, ancient and contemporary dance. The musicians will introduce their instruments, many of which are rarely heard or seen today, and give us some insights into the stories behind the music.

This music has a wide appeal for all ages and backgrounds and Eclipse will give another of their electrifying performances, brimming with kaleidoscopic moods and colours. Don’t miss it! Thursday 3 July, 19:30

Five lunch-time recitals - always popular, our low-calorie lunch option has the usual eclectic mix. Including a piano duo, an organ recital by Léon Charles and a recital by 13 year-old Eleonora Koulouri-Consta, last year’s winner of the Norfolk Young Musicians Competition She is one of the youngest to ever perform in the competition (which is aimed at under-21’s). She’s tipped to have a bright future - come and hear her in Wymondham before she hits the world stage! 30 June - 4 July 13:10

Jazz events include:

Lewis Wright Quartet - prepared to be dazzled by this quartet fronted by 19-year old vibraphone player Lewis Wright. Lewis gave his first public performance at the age of six, going on to become the Norwich Student Jazz Orchestra’s youngest member at the age of 10. He is currently studying Jazz at Trinity College of Music. Friday 4 July 20:00

Robin Phillips Sextet with Kirsty Jarvis. The evening will focus on the vocal side of jazz in the 20th century including works by Rogers & Hart, Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Jimmy Van Heusen, Johnny Mercer and Hoagy Carmichael. Friday 27 June 20:00

Sole Bay Jazz Band at the ever-popular Midsummer Jazz Picnic. A chilled out evening al fresco - good jazz, great atmosphere and the best picnic in the world (well, you bring that, so it’s bound to be!). Monday 23 June 18:00 - 21:30.

Other events to mark in your diary:

There’s a great night for country fans with Kenny Lee and Hustler and Morning Blue Duo Monday 30 June 20:00

A session for folkies with guest artists from Kerfuffle and new Norfolk band Hare’s Breath. Wednesday 2 July 20:00

Wymondham’s first musical Teddy Bears’ Picnic is a must for young families - all sorts of entertainment for humans and bears alike. Sunday 29 June 12:00 - 15:00

An African Music and Dance Day with Anna Mudeka and her band make a spectacular finale to the Festival Fortnight. Saturday 5 July, morning, afternoon and evening

Keep an eye on this site for more details as they emerge!

registered charity no 1081375