Classical Programme

ELISABETH TSAI

ST Mary's Church, Maldon

19:30-21:00

Join acclaimed pianist Elisabeth Tsai for an evening of masterful piano performance, featuring some of the most celebrated works in the classical repertoire. From the lyrical elegance of Schumann and the vibrant character of Bartók to Beethoven’s majestic "Waldstein" Sonata and the virtuosity of Liszt, this captivating recital promises an unforgettable journey through the Romantic and early modern piano tradition. Doors Open 19:00

Book Now!

LIZZIE GUTTERIDGE 'LOOPING THOUGH TIME'

ST Mary's Church, Maldon

19:30-21:00

Journey through music, history and imagination in this captivating one-woman performance by Consort of 1. Blending live looping with an eclectic collection of instruments, the show explores medieval and Renaissance musical traditions, reimagines how people of the past viewed even earlier music, and features material from the acclaimed album Looping Through Time. Arriving by bamboo bike with a compact, sustainable set-up, this unique performance proves that extraordinary music can come from the simplest of journeys.

Book Now!

'LIVE AT THE PROM'

Amphitheatre, Prom Park, Maldon

13:00-20:30

Join us for a fantastic free afternoon and evening of live music at Promenade Park, featuring an exciting line-up of choirs, bands and singer-songwriters.

Opening the day are the Buskerteers Choir, part of an award-winning community of more than 1,500 singers, bringing feel-good favourites and plenty of energy.

Next up, Essex four-piece IC7 deliver their original mix of indie-rock, Americana and country, followed by rising Essex singer-songwriter Florence Sommerville, whose performances have taken her from Latitude Festival to Nashville’s legendary Bluebird Café.

Closing the day, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats take to the stage with their distinctive blend of blues, Americana and roots music, combining soulful guitar, memorable songwriting and laid-back grooves.

Great live music, special guests and activities – all completely free in the heart of Maldon’s Promenade Park.

More Info!

A MUSICAL ILIAD

St Mary's Church, Maldon

19:30-21:00

Step into the world of ancient Greece with award-winning storyteller Clare Goodall and historical musician Lizzie Gutteridge as they bring Homer's Iliad vividly to life. Blending gripping storytelling with haunting live music performed on authentic reproduction instruments including the aulos and lyre, this immersive performance reveals why one of the world's greatest epics has captivated audiences for over 3,000 years.

Performed in period costume with historically inspired props, this unique production makes the timeless tale accessible, engaging and deeply moving, exploring themes of war, honour, courage and humanity that remain as relevant today as they were in the ancient world. An unforgettable evening where history, music and storytelling combine to transport audiences across the centuries.

Book Now!

'LIVE AT THE PROM'

Amphitheatre, Prom Park, Maldon

13:00-20:00

Our second day of music celebration in Prom Park is a more relaxed day including, classical music, singer songwriters, poetry & art activities for everyone. Our music line up headlines with Šuma Quartet a London-based ensemble mentored by Krysia Osostowicz and David Takeno, and they are the 2026 recipients of the St James’ Chamber Music Award.

The Šuma Quartet was formed a year ago by prize-winning students studying at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal College of Music. They are mentored by Krysia Osostowicz and David Takeno, and are the 2026 recipients of the St James’ Chamber Music Award. In the summer of 2026, the group took part in masterclasses with the Danish Quartet and the Leonkoro Quartet, and gave concerts in St James’ Church Piccadilly and Bechstein Hall. The quartet – Yixuan Ren, Pavla Bedřichova, Connor Quigley and Gabriel Webb – are all full scholarship award holders at their respective conservatoires.

Bring a chair or blanket, relax and enjoy an afternoon of exceptional live performance for all ages.

More Info

WILBERT CHAN & ESLISABETH TSAI

St Mary's Church, Maldon

13:00-15:00

Experience an afternoon of outstanding chamber music with acclaimed musicians Wilbert Chan (cello) and Elisabeth Tsai (piano). This beautifully curated recital explores the rich and expressive cello repertoire, featuring two of Beethoven's final cello sonatas alongside evocative works by Webern, Janáček and Mendelssohn. From intimate lyricism to dramatic virtuosity, this captivating programme showcases the remarkable partnership between cello and piano through some of the finest music ever written for the duo.

Book Now!

James Housego Piano Duo

St Mary's Church, Maldon

19:30-21:00

Join accomplished pianist James Housego for an evening of exceptional music. James will be joined by Aimee Taranni. James, currently studying at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, James has established himself as a gifted soloist and collaborative pianist, performing across London and Essex while championing both celebrated masterpieces and lesser-known composers.

A former Organ Scholar at St Mary's Church, Maldon, James brings remarkable sensitivity, technical brilliance and musical insight to every performance. This special recital promises an inspiring programme showcasing the artistry of one of the region's most exciting young musicians alongside invited guest performers.

Book Now!

SILENT MOVIE NIGHT "Charlie Chaplin in The Gold Rush"

St Mary's Church, Maldon

19:30-21:00

Jonathan Eyre is one of today’s prominent liturgical organists. Equally at home performing classical or popular genres, literature of the church or theatre, he is very much in demand accompanying silent films.

He has done extensive silent film accompaniment throughout the UK. A frequent performer for the Cinema Organ Society, he has also performed for Penistone Cinema Organ Trust, BBC Radio, and is one of the resident organists at the Regent Street Cinema. Jonathan is Professor of Organ and was until recently Organist of the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance

Book Now!

LEARN TO SING THE HALLELUJAH CHORUS

All Saints School, Maldon

19:30-21:30

Ever wanted to sing Handel's iconic Hallelujah Chorus? Now's your chance!

Join Maldon Choral Society for a fun and inspiring evening as you discover the joy of singing some of the most famous choruses from Handel's Messiah. Whether you're an experienced singer or simply enjoy singing for pleasure, this free (ticketed) workshop offers a warm welcome to everyone.

Led by Musical Director Ashley Thompson and supported by members of Maldon Choral Society, you'll spend two enjoyable hours learning the world-famous Hallelujah Chorus, with the opportunity to explore one or two other choruses from Messiah. Along the way, you'll pick up practical singing techniques, build confidence, and experience the thrill of singing as part of a choir.

Music is provided, no previous experience is necessary, and the evening concludes with everyone performing together what they've learned. Come along, meet fellow music lovers, and discover why Handel's timeless masterpiece continues to inspire singers around the world.

Book Now!

MOZART'S LE NOZZE DI FIGARO

St Mary's Church

Ready for a afternoon of laughter and music? 🎉🎼 Dive into the comedic brilliance of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro with Opera SQUASHED!

With dynamic stagings and heartfelt storytelling, this performance is perfect for everyone—whether you're an opera aficionado or a curious newcomer! .

Featuring an exciting young cast of singers from the top UK music conservatoires, led by Essex home-grown stage director Alex Wrathal and International Maestro Brian Choi.

Don't wait, book your spot for an evening filled with great joy and musical satisfaction!A stunning finale to our classical programme with a performance of Mozart's ‘The Marriage of Figaro’.

*Partner & Fringe events are promoted and supported by us, but not organised by The Maldon Festival directly

The Maldon Festival 2026

Browse our events day by day view the complete festival programme, including fringe & partner events.

Each listing links directly to our ticketing platform or to more information.

To help you discover events that match your interests, every event is clearly marked with an icon representing its category, including Art, Heritage, Contemporary Music, Classical Music and Performance.

From inspiring Art exhibitions and fascinating heritage experiences to outstanding concerts, performances and family-friendly entertainment, there is something happening every day throughout the festival. With so much taking place across Maldon and the surrounding area, we're confident you'll find events to enjoy, discover and remember.

Our festival schedule is growing more artists and events will be announced all the eay up to the festival start!

Classical Programme

*Partner & Fringe events are promoted and supported by us, but not organised by The Maldon Festival directly

The Maldon Festival 2026

07740244597

themaldonfestival@gmail.com