One of Britain’s most magical celebrations of homegrown classical music returns to Dorchester-on-Thames in Oxfordshire this spring, as the Eighteenth English Music Festival (EMF) takes over Dorchester Abbey from 23rd–26th May 2025.
This much-loved festival continues its mission to revive and celebrate Britain’s rich musical heritage, particularly forgotten or overlooked works from the late 19th to mid-20th century, with a packed programme of world premieres, rare performances, and stellar British talent.
A Festival Opener of Musical Rarity
The festival opens on Friday evening with a landmark moment: the World Première of Stanley Bate’s Symphony No. 2, performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra under conductor Martin Yates. Written in 1939 and never performed publicly, the work promises to be, in Yates’ words, “a revelation… [that] explodes with tension from the first bar.”
This major event also features Sir Arthur Bliss’ rarely performed Cello Concerto, played by celebrated soloist Raphael Wallfisch, as part of the 50th anniversary commemorations of the composer’s death. Rounding off the opening night are compositions by Vaughan Williams, Frederick Delius, and William Alwyn, a quintessentially British orchestral showcase in the Abbey’s awe-inspiring setting.
Choral, Vocal & Chamber Music Highlights
The weekend’s performances span an extraordinary breadth of British talent and musical styles:
- The Godwine Choir, under Hilary Davan Wetton, will present The Golden Skein, a luminous programme of choral favourites inspired by William Blake and Edgar Bainton.
- Excalibur Voices return with My Spirit Sang All Day, a rich selection of works by Gibbs, Howells, Elgar, and others.
- Pianist Peter Cartwright joins violinist Rupert Marshall-Luck for Music out of Silence, featuring chamber premières by Norman O’Neill, Alan Rawsthorne, and Herbert Howells.
From Wind Bands to Keyboard Greats
This year’s festival marks the debut of a wind band at EMF, with St Cat’s Ensemble performing works including the UK premiere of Martin Ellerby’s Wessex Dances. The Royal Ballet Sinfonia joins for the first time in Peter Warlock’s English Ayres, under conductor John Andrews, bringing a vibrant, dance-inspired programme.
Pianists Hiroaki Takenouchi and Simon Callaghan take centre stage in programmes exploring the works of under-recognised composers like Dorothy Howell, Caroline Reinagle, and Thomas Pitfield, part of the festival’s commitment to uncovering hidden gems of English music.
Late-Night Serenity and Ancient Song
For those seeking something more atmospheric, the EMF offers captivating late-evening performances:
Classical guitarist Jack Hancher presents music from his new album The Memory Garden, featuring works by Dowland, Britten, and Dani Howard.
Composer and vocalist Stef Conner will perform All in a Green Willow, a hauntingly beautiful fusion of mediaeval lyrics and folk-inspired modern composition.
Composer Talks and Music Insights
Alongside the musical programme, a series of talks and discussions offers deeper context. Subjects range from Peter Warlock and Benjamin Britten, to author Lewis Foreman’s illustrated reflections on 50 years of recording British music.
Plan Your Visit
- Venue: All concerts take place in the stunning surroundings of Dorchester Abbey (High Street, Dorchester, Wallingford OX10 7HH), with talks held in the Village Hall (7 Queen Street, Dorchester, Wallingford OX10 7HR).
- Travel: A dedicated minibus service will run to and from Didcot Parkway Station (booking via website required).
- Festival lunch and day passes are also available (pre-booking advised).
Tickets and full programme:
Visit englishmusicfestival.org.uk for event details, ticketing, and travel information.
