Upcoming Events

Come and hear the combined voices of the Songways choirs from Bath and Bradford on Avon in the beautiful setting and superb acoustics of Bath Abbey.

Songs to celebrate the earth, water and life, beautiful Scottish, Canadian and American songs, rich South African church choruses and original compositions by Jane Harris, Director of Songways.

“We’re passionate about the music we sing and we’d love to share it with you… harmonies that lift us up, powerful songs that draw us together and go straight to the heart, and songs that create a sense of stillness and peace.”

No need to book tickets, just come along on the day.

Normal admission charges to the Abbey apply.
FREE for BA1 and BA2 residents (please bring proof of address) and for Bath & NE Somerset Discovery Card holders

Photo: Dave Pegg

About Songways | songways.co.uk 

Songways choirs meet on Wednesday evenings in St Swithin’s Church, Bath and Friday mornings in Holy Trinity, Bradford on Avon. All are welcome and there is no need to read music – Jane teaches all the songs and harmonies by ear.

“We relish the energy, vibrancy and variety of the songs we sing in Songways and are excited by the way singing in harmony can take us into different sound worlds. Jane plays the violin and we love to collaborate with other instrumental musicians for some of our songs. Singing with Songways is also a chance to develop your voice, increasing range and resonance, and exploring new singing styles.”

⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Bath. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Hans Zimmer at Bath Abbey under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Book tickets online HERE 

Programme

• Time from Inception
• This Land from The Lion King
• Zooster’s Breakout from Madagascar
• Supermarine from Dunkirk
• Honor from The Pacific
• A Dark Knight from The Dark Knight
• Wonder Woman Suite
• Cornfield Chase from Interstellar
• Dune Suite
• Gladiator Suite
• Discombobulate from Sherlock Holmes
• Pirates of the Caribbean Suite

Performers

String Quartet – To be announced!

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Experience the tragedy, the pity, and the hope of the Easter story – in the glorious setting of Bath Abbey.

In this Holy Week come and hear the beautiful sounds of baroque virtuosic specialist players Rejouissance as they lead the nationally acclaimed singers of Abbey Girls, Boys and Lay Clerks in this most uplifting and inspiring piece of music

Evangelist sung by renowned tenor – Ruairi Bowen

Previous performances by the choir described as ‘intense’ and electrifying, ‘full of energy and urgency’ ‘outstanding’.

Despite the wonderful baroque instruments and Bach’s superb imagination, the St Matthew Passion is rarely performed because of its complex and rich scoring. This is a rare opportunity to hear this amazing work during Holy Week in the captivating surroundings of Bath Abbey.

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Phoenix Singers is a friendly and enthusiastic mixed-voice choir of around 100 singers based in Bournville, Birmingham. We sing for enjoyment while also raising money for local and national charities.

Our regular concerts take place in local churches and concert halls with an annual Christmas concert at Birmingham Town Hall.  Our repertoire is wide-ranging, from classical choral pieces to gospel, folk and pop.

We also share our joy of singing beyond our local area, performing in cities across Britain and overseas.  We were especially proud to perform at Tyne Cot cemetery and at the Menin Gate in Ypres as part of our tour to Belgium in April 2025.

Recital included with general admittance ticket.

Sounding it Out are a mixed SATB choir with four strong sections and around forty members. A diverse and sociable bunch, we attract members from Bath, Bristol, Bradford on Avon, Warminster and Westbury – as well as Trowbridge of course! We sing a wide variety of songs: pop, folk, gospel, and roots, from Britain and beyond. The main ethos of the choir is that we enjoy singing together.

Recital included with general admittance ticket.

Tickets available online HERE

PROGRAMME

Mozart – Marriage of Figaro Overture
Vivaldi – The Four Seasons
Vaughan Williams – The Lark Ascending

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London Concertante are delighted to announce the return of their sell-out Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and The Lark Ascending by Candlelight concert series.

Experience astounding music by one of classical music’s greatest composers performed by some of the country’s best classical musicians all presented by stunning candlelight in cathedrals across the UK & Ireland.

Bathe in soaring crescendos and melodic strings as our live ensemble conjures Vivaldi’s exceptional craft, imagination, and quality, showcasing his pioneering techniques and his profound impact on Baroque music. This concert series promises to bring the iconic ‘Four Seasons’ to life in an extraordinary musical journey through nature’s beauty, strength and grace.

One of the UK’s most renowned ensembles, London Concertante has been bringing outstanding quality classical music to audiences across the country for over three decades, creating unforgettable experiences for classical music connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

If you don’t consider yourself ‘in the know’ about classical music, fear not, this is the orchestra for you. London Concertante boasts an impressive record in which half of our audiences are first time classical concert goers.

Book now as a cherished gift for your favourite classical music lover, and for a night out truly like no other.

Weybridge Male Voice Choir

Musical Director Jonathan Kilhams

Accompanist Tom Kelsey

Having sung their Lunchtime Recital in the beautiful surroundings and acoustics of Bath Abbey in 2024, Weybridge Male Voice Choir is delighted to be here again en route to the Cornwall International Male Choral Festival, where they will sing in competition with 14 other choirs and in 4 concerts and events across Cornwall.

Formed in 1921, the choir is a lively team of almost sixty members with a long and successful history, enjoying an enviable reputation for performance quality and entertainment value; and proud of its record in raising funds for many local and national charities, with the choir regularly attracting large audiences.

They maintain an exciting, varied repertoire, all performed in the spine-tingling four-part harmony unique to traditional male voice choral singing, with some traditional repertoire and some more modern songs.

In 2014, they were delighted to recruit the very young Jonathan Kilhams, now celebrating 12 years as Musical Director. With his energetic, supportive and innovative approach, he has successfully introduced music that appeals to younger singers and audiences. And young accompanist, Tom Kelsey, has great understanding of the choir and Johnny; and is also a great solo pianist, as you’ll hear in the recital.

Book tickets online HERE

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra performs Pop Goes Classical, uplifting orchestral versions of the world’s most iconic pop songs.

Pop Goes Classical shows that a great melody transcends time and genre. Join us for an uplifting and unforgettable musical experience where the world’s best loved songs are reimagined by the iconic Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, orchestrated by the producers of the hit Classic FM album, Pop Goes Classical.

This world-famous orchestra will take you from the heartfelt ballads of Ed Sheeran and John Legend to the anthemic sounds of Coldplay, U2, and Oasis, transforming well-loved songs such as Hallelujah, Fix You and Fields of Gold into sweeping symphonic masterpieces – as heard on Classic FM.

Whether you’re a lifelong pop fan, a classical music enthusiast, or somewhere in between, this celebration of uplifting and emotional music is not to be missed.

If you would like to commission the orchestration of a specific song on the night to celebrate a special occasion, please contact the organisers here: [email protected]

Tuesdays@1 Organ Recitals run every Tuesday lunchtime from May – October. Guest organists perform on our magnificent Klais Organ.

May Organists:

• 5 May – Marcus Sealy, formerly Sub-Organist of Bath Abbey
• 12 May – Peter King, Organist Emeritus, marking the 10th anniversary of his retirement as Director of Music at Bath Abbey
• 19 May – David Thomas, Exeter College, Oxford
• 26 May – Francis Murton, Jersey

All are welcome.

Song School Soirée

Book tickets online HERE

A recital of solos played and sung by members of the Abbey Boys Choir and the Abbey Girls Choir. An opportunity to see the facilities not normally open to the public and to hear what it means to be a chorister at Bath Abbey. Hosted by Director of Music, Huw Williams.

Drinks available from 6.40pm

Tuesdays@1 Organ Recitals run every Tuesday lunchtime from May – October. Guest organists perform on our magnificent Klais Organ.

May Organists:

• 5 May – Marcus Sealy, formerly Sub-Organist of Bath Abbey
• 12 May – Peter King, Organist Emeritus, marking the 10th anniversary of his retirement as Director of Music at Bath Abbey
• 19 May – David Thomas, Exeter College, Oxford
• 26 May – Francis Murton, Jersey

All are welcome.

Book online HERE

The evening begins with the noble grandeur of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, also known as “The Emperor”. With its bold, majestic themes and virtuosic brilliance, this concerto showcases Beethoven at his most commanding and expressive. The mood then softens with Grieg’s Morning from Peer Gynt—a gentle, radiant piece that evokes the beauty of a new dawn with its lyrical charm and peaceful optimism.

The concert concludes with the deeply emotional and enduringly popular Piano Concerto No. 2 by Rachmaninov. Overflowing with lush romantic melodies and dramatic intensity, it remains one of the most beloved works in the repertoire—performed here by celebrated pianist Warren Mailley-Smith, whose interpretations continue to move audiences across the UK.

Performed with the acclaimed Piccadilly Sinfonietta, renowned for their artistry and exceptional performances, this is an evening of classical music not to be missed.

‘Stunning’ – Classic FM

Featuring
The Piccadilly Sinfonietta
Warren Mailley-Smith (piano)

Programme
Beethoven – Piano Concerto No. 5 “The Emperor”
Grieg – Morning from Peer Gynt
(Interval)
Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No. 2

Tuesdays@1 Organ Recitals run every Tuesday lunchtime from May – October. Guest organists perform on our magnificent Klais Organ.

May Organists:

• 5 May – Marcus Sealy, formerly Sub-Organist of Bath Abbey
• 12 May – Peter King, Organist Emeritus, marking the 10th anniversary of his retirement as Director of Music at Bath Abbey
• 19 May – David Thomas, Exeter College, Oxford
• 26 May – Francis Murton, Jersey

All are welcome.

Join the First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte Sanctuary Choir for a spirited lunchtime concert of gospels and American choral highlights by Anton Copland, Elaine Hagenberg, Hoses Hogan, Stephen Paulus and others.

The Sanctuary Choir of First Presbyterian Church, Charlotte NC is the flagship ensemble of the music ministry.  We lead the congregation in song each Sunday for worship, offering music that reflects the depth of our faith and the joy of our community.  Rooted in a tradition of excellence and guided by a shared calling, we strive to glorify God and share the love of Christ in every note we sing.  Our repertoire includes a wide range of styles representing sacred works from across the centuries, and our goal is to enhance the experience of all who join us in worship.  We’re more than a choir; we’re a family.

Music Director: William Phelps Young, III

Organist: Dr. Adam Ward

Programme to include

Aaron Copland (arr. Glenn Koponen)  –  Zion’s Walls

Moses Hogan (arr.)  –  Hear My Prayer

Mack Wilberg (arr.)  –  Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Margaret Bonds (arr.)  –  He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

Stephen Paulus  –  Pilgrims’ Hymn

William Dawson (arr.)  –  Soon-ah Will Be Done

Elaine Hagenberg  –  O Love

Jester Hairston (arr.)  –  In Dat Great Gittin’ Up Mornin’

Tuesdays@1 Organ Recitals run every Tuesday lunchtime from May – October. Guest organists perform on our magnificent Klais Organ.

May Organists:

• 5 May – Marcus Sealy, formerly Sub-Organist of Bath Abbey
• 12 May – Peter King, Organist Emeritus, marking the 10th anniversary of his retirement as Director of Music at Bath Abbey
• 19 May – David Thomas, Exeter College, Oxford
• 26 May – Francis Murton, Jersey

All are welcome.

Tickets available online HERE

PROGRAMME

Puccini – “Nessun Dorma” from Turandot
Delibes – “Flower Duet” from Lakme
Mozart – Marriage of Figaro overture
Puccini – “O Mio Babbino Caro” from Gianni Schicchi
Rossini – Barber of Seville Overture
Verdi – “La donna e mobile” from Rigoletto
Bizet – Habanera from Carmen
Puccini – “Un Bel Di Vedremo” from Madame Butterfly
Puccini – “E Lucevan le Stelle” from Tosca
and many, many more!

ABOUT

London Concertante presents a sensational evening at the opera with an array of the finest opera arias and overtures, performing works from Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, and Mozart. Enjoy some of the best from Madame Butterfly, Turandot, Tosca, The Barber of Seville, Carmen, Così fan tutte and so much more.

Experience the thrill, drama, and romance of some of opera’s most beloved and immersive stories, performed by acclaimed live orchestra, London Concertante, and some of the UK’s greatest opera singers – all presented by spectacular candlelight as part of their sell-out Candlelight Concerts series

Feel the intensity of Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma” from the epic opera Turandot, as its powerful notes sweep over you. Delight in the delicate harmonies of Delibes’ “Flower Duet” from Lakme, a floral celebration of soprano voices. Meanwhile Mozart’s “Marriage of Figaro Overture” sets the tone for comedic intrigue, leading seamlessly to the emotional depth of Puccini’s “O Mio Babbino Caro” from Gianni Schicchi.

The evening continues with the lively overture from Rossini’s Barber of Seville, followed by Verdi’s spirited “La donna e mobile” from Rigoletto. Experience the seductive allure of Bizet’s Habanera from Carmen before being serenaded by Puccini’s heartrending arias, “Un Bel Di Vedremo” from Madame Butterfly and “E Lucevan le Stelle” from Tosca.

If you don’t consider yourself ‘in the know’ about Rossini, Verdi, or Puccini, fear not, this is the orchestra for you. London Concertante boasts an impressive record in which half of all spectators are first time classical concert goers.

The highly acclaimed orchestra has its audience laughing at jokes, gasping at virtuosity, moved by gorgeous string playing, and leaving with a smile on their faces.

Join us for a night where each piece is a precious gem, meticulously chosen to showcase the depth and diversity of the operatic experience.

Let the melodies resonate in your heart and soul, as the performers transport you to a world of classical music, passion, drama, and exquisite musicality.

Tickets available online HERE

Ella and Friends is a heartfelt celebration of the First Lady of Song, Ella Fitzgerald. Spanning nearly five decades of iconic music, this elegant cabaret-style performance brings her ingenious charm and translucent voice to life in the stunning surroundings of cathedrals across the UK.

With lush string arrangements, a swinging rhythm section, and sparkling trumpet, the show takes audiences on a journey through her legendary interpretations of the Great American Songbook – from Gershwin to Porter, Berlin to Duke Ellington — alongside her unforgettable collaborations with Louis Armstrong. There are also nods to some of the other jazz icons who shaped her era, including Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Sarah Vaughan.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the glitz, glamour, and soul of the golden age of jazz in some of the country’s most breath-taking spaces.

Join us for a lunchtime concert by the Young Musicians’ Platform.

All are welcome.

Amanda Aston Msc, Grad Dip Theol. Is passionate about Christian worship and plays violin at Bath Abbey, and for the RUH. She has been playing in the Bath Abbey worship team, at weddings and also lunchtime recitals for a decade. She has played regularly at St Michael’s Without and St. Swithin’s in Bath and Vineyard West Wilts. Also performing solo violin to the President of Singapore, frequently at the British High Commission, and also to Princess Anne in London.

Amanda enjoys arranging and playing violin in Jane Austen events such as 3 annual balls at St Swithin’s for the Genesis Trust, and in the Guildhall, No.1 the Royal Crescent for the Bath Preservation Trust. Also at Stourhead and Montecute House for the National Trust.

Amanda also plays violin at weddings, funerals and other events with her piano accompaniment in “Serenade Strings”.

She also teaches adults violin and has formed the first community Violin Ensemble for the University of the Third Age in Bath; “Simply Strings U3a”.

Recital included with general admittance ticket.