Broughton Pianos Proudly Sponsors the Star-Studded Ludlow Piano Festival 2024

Broughton Pianos are thrilled to announce our sponsorship of the highly anticipated Ludlow Piano Festival 2024.

This year's festival, scheduled from May 22nd to May 26th, promises to be a five day extravaganza celebrating the beauty and versatility of the piano. With a lineup of 19 events spread across three stunning venues, the festival offers something for everyone, from classical enthusiasts to comedy lovers.

A Star-Studded Opening

The festival will commence with a celebrity concert hosted by BBC Midlands Today presenter Shefali Oza, setting the stage for an unforgettable week of music and entertainment. Joining Oza on stage will be Giles from Gogglebox, along with comedians Tim Vine, Rachel Parris, Dr. Adam Kay (author of "This Is Going To Hurt"), Alistair McGowan, Tom Service, Sarah Walker from BBC Radio 3, and Ben Cooper from "Bargain Hunt". Each celebrity will take their turn to play short pieces on a beautiful Steinway piano, showcasing their musical talents in support of this prestigious event.

A Diverse Programme

The Ludlow Piano Festival 2024 offers a diverse programme of events, including comedy performances from Rainer Hersch, who will explore the humorous side of classical music by asking and answering questions like "What do conductors actually do?". Additionally, there will be a special show celebrating the much loved songs of Victoria Wood, as well as screenings of three iconic silent movies accompanied by live piano music.

For the first time, jazz will be featured at the festival, with Ludlow born pianist Liam Dunachie taking the stage to pay tribute to jazz legends Fats Waller, Bill Evans, and Keith Jarrett. This exciting addition adds a new dimension to the festival's already eclectic lineup, showcasing the versatility of the piano across different musical genres.

Featured Performers

Lucy Parham: Renowned pianist Lucy Parham returns to the festival with another captivating "Words and Music" concert, this time celebrating the life of Clara Schumann. Joined by esteemed actress Dame Harriet Walter, Parham's performance promises to be a moving tribute to one of classical music's most iconic figures.

Liam Dunachie: Ludlow born pianist Liam Dunachie makes his festival debut with a mesmerising tribute to jazz legends Fats Waller, Bill Evans, and Keith Jarrett. Known for his virtuosic playing and improvisational prowess, Dunachie's performance is sure to be a highlight of the festival's jazz programme.

Charles Owen: Legend of the concert circuit and Radio 3 favourite, Worcestershire's own Charles Owen returns to the Ludlow Piano Festival with a captivating solo recital. With his impeccable technique and profound musicality, Owen's performance promises to be an unforgettable experience for classical music lovers.

These are just a few examples of the incredible talent that will be showcased at the Ludlow Piano Festival, making it an event not to be missed.

Ludlow: A Charming Destination

Nestled in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, Ludlow is a picturesque town steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. With its medieval castle, quaint streets, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene, Ludlow offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience.

During your visit to the Ludlow Piano Festival, take some time to explore everything this charming town has to offer. From strolling along the medieval walls to sampling local delicacies at the renowned eateries, Ludlow is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a relaxing retreat.

Venues

This year, the festival will take place in three fabulous venues nestled in the breathtaking Shropshire countryside:

Ludlow Assembly Rooms: Located in the heart of Ludlow, the Assembly Rooms have been a cultural hub for over a century. With its elegant architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, it provides the perfect setting for intimate recitals and larger ensemble performances.

St. Laurence's Church: A masterpiece of medieval architecture, St. Laurence's Church offers a truly atmospheric backdrop for the festival's classical concerts. The soaring ceilings and exquisite stained glass windows create a sense of reverence and awe, enhancing the experience for both performers and audiences.

Ludlow Brewery: For a more relaxed and informal setting, the Ludlow Brewery provides the ideal venue for the festival's jazz and comedy performances. With its cosy atmosphere and excellent acoustics, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy an evening of music and laughter.

Community Engagement + Street Pianos

In addition to the main events, the Ludlow Piano Festival is committed to engaging with the local community through initiatives such as street pianos, giving people the chance to showcase their musical talents to the passing public. This interactive element adds to the festival's inclusive atmosphere, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to participate in the celebration of music.

Get Your Tickets Now!

The Ludlow Piano Festival 2024 promises an unforgettable celebration of music, laughter, and community. With a stellar lineup, diverse events, and picturesque venues, it's an unmissable experience.

Ticket sales will be handled by Ludlow Assembly Rooms and you can either book online, by phone or in person at the Box Office on 01584 878141. Most festival events (excluding the Celebrity Concert) are priced at just £5 for Under 18’s. Hurry, tickets are selling fast! Secure yours today and be part of this extraordinary event.

Join us in Ludlow – we can't wait to see you there!