Amersham Festival of Music

The Spring 2025 Festival promises a dazzling array of concerts including: 

Friday 28th March 8.00 pm “Music from the movies – Live” 

Sunday 30th March 6.00 pm “Bucks Music Trust in Concert”

Friday 4th April 8.00 pm “The Syd Lawrence Orchestra presents ‘The Big Band Legends'” 

Sunday 6th April 4.00 pm “Amersham A Cappella in concert” 

Thursday 10th April 7.30 pm “The Great American Songbook with Great American Wine” 

Saturday 12th April 7.30 pm “South Bucks Choral Society presents Haydn’s The Seasons” 

Sunday 13th April 4.00 pm “Introducing Chris Hopkins at Penn House” – SOLD OUT 

Tuesday 22nd April 8.00 pm “‘Desert Island Discs’ with Iain Ledingham in conversation with James Luckhurst” 

Saturday 26th April 8.00 pm “Iain Ledingham’s Grand Farewell Concert as Festival Artistic Director”

Passing on the Baton: Amersham Festival of Music 2025 Marks a Historic Transition

The Amersham Festival of Music returns this Spring for a momentous season of concerts, celebrating over four decades of musical excellence under the direction of Iain Ledingham in his final festival as Artistic Director. While Iain will remain involved with the festival through his continued leadership of the South Bucks Choral Society, this year marks the official passing of the baton to his successor, Chris Hopkins.

Chris, a former pupil of Iain’s, brings an exceptional musical pedigree to the role. Having spent over a decade conducting at the English National Opera (ENO) and currently serving as Head of Vocal Faculty Opera at the Royal Academy of Music and Principal Conductor of English Sinfonia and Orchestra of the City, he is deeply honoured to be taking the reins from one of his musical idols.

“The Amersham Festival of Music has been such a huge part of my life, and it has been a privilege to share my passion for music with this wonderful community,” said Iain Ledingham. “As I step back from my role as Artistic Director, I am delighted to welcome Chris, whose outstanding musicianship and dedication will ensure the festival continues to flourish. I can’t wait to see what the future holds under his leadership.”

Chris Hopkins expressed his enthusiasm for his new role: “It’s a great honour to follow in Iain’s footsteps. His vision and dedication have shaped this festival into something really special, and I look forward to building on this remarkable legacy. This year’s festival will be both a celebration of Iain’s achievements and an exciting introduction to what’s to come.”

This year’s festival will feature a spectacular line-up of performances, showcasing renowned orchestras, chamber ensembles, Emmy-nominated Rael Jones, Big Band Jazz Legends the Syd Lawrence Orchestra, Great American Wine and Song, as well as emerging young artists, talented young musicians from Bucks Music Trust, and UK/European Female Harmony Champions Amersham A Capella. The festival’s professional orchestra will once again take centre stage, performing masterpieces in what promises to be a triumphant farewell to Iain’s musical legacy.

The aim of starting the Festival was to promote music-making of the highest professional quality in the local area, using some of the very attractive local venues.

Supporting the Next Generation of Musicians

The Amersham Festival continues its commitment to music education and community outreach. In November, the festival provided free tickets to pupils from Amersham School and Dr. Challoner’s Grammar School for the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars Gershwin concert, offering young music students a unique opportunity to experience the magic of live jazz.

Additionally, the festival has continued its support for Bucks Music Trust (BMT) by providing bursaries and grants to help fund music lessons for young musicians in the region. Over the years, the festival has awarded more than £20,000 in financial aid, helping over 100 young musicians further their studies.

This year’s festival is not just a celebration of music, but a farewell to a musical visionary who has shaped Amersham’s cultural landscape for over 40 years. Music lovers who join the Friends of the Amersham Festival gain early booking access and are invited to special events throughout the season.

Don’t miss this spectacular local festival, celebrating the achievements of Iain Ledingham and welcoming Chris Hopkins as he takes the festival into a new chapter.

Visit Website>

Book Your Tickets Here>