Sherborne Abbey Festival 2024 once again delivered an eclectic mix of performances, attracting enormous audiences from near and far. Visitors and performers alike were enchanted by the town of Sherborne, its vibrant atmosphere, and the warm hospitality they received. As always, attendees had the luxury of experiencing all 24 concerts without any schedule overlaps. The Festival showcased world-class musicians, local ensembles, and talented school groups, each enjoying their moment in the spotlight.
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This year also marked a poignant moment in the Festival’s history, as John Baker stepped down as Chairman and Artistic Director, roles he has been dedicated to since founding the festival in 1999. His final season was a fitting tribute to his vision and hard work, and he has extended his heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the Festival over the past 25 years. Rest assured that the Festival’s future is looking bright, with John Jenkins and Ana Manero stepping into the roles of Chairman and Artistic Director.
World-Renowned Musicians
The Festival featured an array of stellar performances over 8 days. Seventeen-year-old violin prodigy Leia Zhu captivated audiences with Brahms’ Violin Concerto, which was followed by the Iuventus Chamber Orchestra’s enchanting rendition of Mozart’s Symphony No. 41 ‘Jupiter’.
The elite vocal ensemble Ex Cathedra presented Rachmaninoff’s All-night Vigil, bringing the powerful and hypnotic choral work to life in the stunning setting of Sherborne Abbey.
The Academy of Ancient Music celebrated the Italian concerto with spirited performances of Vivaldi and Corelli, while the Aquinas Piano Trio delivered exquisite renditions of Haydn, Mendelssohn, and Schubert trios.
Concerts from Local Schools
Sherborne’s vibrant educational community was well-represented, with standout performances by Sherborne School Chamber Ensembles, Swing Band, and Chamber Choir, Leweston School Chamber Ensembles, and Schola Cantorum, plus Sherborne Girls Madrigal Society, and Chamber Ensembles. The Gryphon School presented an exciting three-way choral collaboration featuring talented students alongside members of the staff choir, and Phoenix Voices.
Community and Family Workshops
Family-friendly workshops, such as Toddler Tunes and Carnival Samba ensured that the Festival had something for everyone. They brought joy to both younger and older attendees, fostering a love for music across generations!
Unique Performances
Sherborne Abbey Choir’s Choral Illuminations drew from the historic Sherborne Missal, interspersing plainchant with Renaissance masterpieces. The Wessex Strings delighted with a varied program, including Vivaldi, Glazunov, and Bach.
The English Orpheus featured ex Sherborne chorister, and former Festival grant recipient, tenor Kieran White and harpsichordist David Wright, offering Purcell lovers a sublime afternoon of arias and songs. The intimate Dinner and Opera at The Plume once again charmed attendees with its unique blend of fine dining and opera.
Preparations for Sherborne Abbey Festival 2025 are already well underway, promising more musical delights. Thank you to all the artists, volunteers, patrons, and attendees who made this year’s Festival a resounding success. We hope to see you again next year for another celebration of exceptional music!
