Wimbledon International music festival returned on 12 November and will allow locals to enjoy live music until 28 November.
The music festival has taken place every November since 2009 and has matched talented artists with audiences in South West London whilst giving young artists a platform to kickstart their careers.
Last year the festival was held virtually, with performances streamed online.
Festival director, Anthony Wilkinson said: “Things may still feel a little different, but it will be wonderful to experience live music-making at the heart of our community once again.”
The festival kicked off on Saturday night with a performance by Philharmonia Orchestra at Trinity URC Church, which saw Benjamin Marquise Gilmore on the violin and Robin O’Neill as the conductor.
Over the course of the two-week festival, internationally acclaimed artists such as bass-baritone Sir Willard White, pianist Dame Imogen Cooper and the Tallis Scholars will be among those performing.
The festival will end on Sunday the 28th with Tango club at Holy Trinity Church, which will take the audience on a journey through the music and life of the maestro with a combination of live music and dance.
Wilkinson said: “There’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
He believes that classical music should be available to everyone and their brand-new event, ‘Bring up the music’, is aimed at people who haven’t been to a concert before and may be nervous about attending.
A symposium curated by Professor Adam Ockelford from Roehampton University called ‘Music in Mind’ will look at the impact of autism, deafness and blindness on musical development.
A leading researcher will then assess each condition with members of the music community such as deaf percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie.
The festival period was initially chosen to embrace St Cecelia’s Day, 22 November.
Wimbledon International music festival also has a partnership with Merton Music Foundation which has enabled thousands of Merton children to attend workshops and concerts, whilst learning about the music industry.
In their tenth anniversary year they introduced Schools PlayFest and supported ‘Merton Music Presents…’ which is a new partnership between Merton Music Foundation and New Wimbledon Theatre.
Wilkinson said: “There are many rewarding careers in music, not just as a performer. I’ve always been behind the camera, so to speak, and have loved every minute of it. To bring an international music festival to Wimbledon is a real privilege and joy.”
