Wiltshire Music Centre has announced its new Autumn/Winter season – the first under the leadership of Artistic Director Daniel Clark and Executive Director Sarah Robertson – with a programme packed with family fun, musical discovery and evening escapes for grown-ups.
Families can look forward to a variety of creative and engaging shows perfect for little ones and older children alike. Highlights include CBeebies musical superhero and podcast host Nick Cope, who brings his festive-themed show to the Centre on 7 December. Expect songs, laughter and a healthy dose of silliness that kids will love.
Earlier in the season, there’s spooky storytelling and captivating visuals with The Paper Cinema’s Halloween Special on 1 November. Blending hand-drawn puppets with live music and projection, it promises an immersive experience for the whole family.
Young music lovers can also experience the joy of live jazz with a special afternoon concert featuring clarinettist Giacomo Smith and the Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra on 12 October, celebrating big band brilliance and young talent in full swing.
For parents and carers looking for a night out, the new season is rich with standout performances ideal for evening entertainment. The internationally acclaimed Aurora Orchestra makes its WMC debut on 21 November, performing Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony and Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 2 entirely from memory – a thrilling showcase of virtuosity and innovation.
The following evening (22 November) sees a rare UK appearance by the legendary Bill Frisell Trio, one of the biggest names in jazz, fresh from the London Jazz Festival.
Other evening gems include folk-electronica band Tunng (19 November), spellbinding Welsh triple harpist Cerys Hafana (18 October) and avant-pop favourites Penguin Cafe, bringing their cult 80s and 90s sound to life on 18 November.
Jazz fans will be treated to a season-long residency from Giacomo Smith, with a centenary tribute to Louis Armstrong (27 September) and a Django Reinhardt-inspired quartet performance (14 November).
Meanwhile, acclaimed classical artists return to the WMC stage, including celebrated violinist Rachel Podger with Brecon Baroque (8 October), and the exceptional pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason (26 October). The Young Artist Programme also continues, spotlighting rising stars such as violinist Nathan Amaral (17 December) and pianist Riyad Nicolas (12 November).
Executive Director Sarah Robertson brings experience from her work at Bristol Beacon, while Daniel Clark brings over 25 years in the arts, previously leading the Creative Programme at the Story Museum in Oxford. Their shared vision marks a new chapter for the Centre, one that combines artistic excellence with community warmth.
“Our new season honours the Centre’s spirit of musical curiosity,” says Daniel. “We’re thrilled to offer unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages – whether it’s a child’s first concert or a special night out for grown-ups.”
Visit www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk to explore the full programme and book tickets.
