The Elgar Festival, set to return to Worcestershire in May and June, has announced a pre-festival event titled ‘Come and Play’.
Slated for Saturday, May 17, it will welcome amateur musicians from across the UK for a day of rehearsals, culminating in a performance of Elgar’s 1st Symphony.
The event is being jointly organised by the festival and the English Symphony Orchestra (ESO), with coaching and encouragement throughout the day from the ESO’s principal players.
It will be conducted by the ESO’s associate conductor, Joe Davies.
Kenneth Woods, artistic director of the festival, said: “Following on from the huge success of 2024’s inaugural Come and Play day, this event is an opportunity for aspiring amateur musicians of all ages to experience the joys and challenges of Elgar’s symphonic writing in an enjoyable and relaxed environment.
“We are looking forward to welcoming amateur musicians and young musicians from all over the UK to join us for this exciting project.”
Previous experience of Elgar’s 1st Symphony is not essential, and there is no audition; however, it is recommended that applicants are Grade 7+ or equivalent standard.
All applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The day will culminate in a showcase concert for family and friends at 4pm.
The event will take place at St Martin’s Church.
Themed ‘Celebrate with Elgar’, this year’s festival will bring together world-class professional musicians and artists alongside choirs and ensembles.
Set in the composer’s hometown and surrounding areas over the week closest to Elgar’s birthday on June 2, the festival is an annual celebration of his music, spanning symphonic and string orchestra concerts by the resident ESO, along with chamber concerts, choral concerts, recitals, workshops, masterclasses, street performances, a young composers’ competition, exhibits, tours, and talks.
The festival’s venues include Worcester Cathedral, Royal Porcelain Works, The Guildhall, Malvern Priory, Pershore Abbey, St Martin’s London Road, All Saints Deansway, St George’s Barbourne, St Martin in the Cornmarket, Elgar’s Birthplace The Firs, Huntingdon Hall, St Wulstan’s at Little Malvern, St George’s RC Church and Piston Distillery.
For further information and to apply, visit www.elgarfestival.org/come-and-play-elgar-1/.