Concerts in the West will soon be bringing ‘award-winning’ music to local venues, writes Thomas Faithfull.
Founded by a small group of trustees, the local charity provides big opportunities to aspiring musicians, giving them the chance to perform in regional venues across Somerset, Dorset, and Devon.
Its unique approach of gathering funds from performances not only provides experience for up-and-coming musicians but also allows all generations access to high-quality, classical music – something less seen in more rural areas.
The charity will see Duo Fabulae – a London-based classical ensemble – take to the stage.
Formed in 2020, members Lorena Cantó, who plays viola, and Yvain Calvo, who plays piano, have captivated audiences with their narrative-based works.
Each of them has seen great success in both solo and chamber musician roles, with Lorena performing on national broadcasts (BBC Three’s In Tune and Classic FM) and Yvain playing as an accompanist at the 2022 Proms.
As they travel to the South West, the duo will be performing works by many classical composers, including Schumann and Beethoven.
However, whilst the charity manages to provide such opportunities, they still rely on donations to continue spreading the joy of music.
Being based on a local scale, ticket sales only account for half the running fees, with services such as venue hire, marketing, and pay for the performers driving up costs.
Arts programmes still face a lack of funding nationwide and as costs continue to rise, this economic challenge only becomes more difficult for the charity.
If you are interested in supporting the charity, funds from ticket prices go straight to Concerts in the West.
Evening concert prices stand at £20 with a reduced rate of £5 for students with ID.
Under 12s are also granted free admission with a paying adult.
Duo Fabulae will be performing live at the venues listed below, with tickets available online at concertsinthewest.org.
Friday 27 June – 7.30 pm – Ilminster Arts Centre, East Street, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 0AN.
Doors open at 6.45 pm.
Tickets can be purchased by calling the IAC Office on 01460 54973, or on the door (card only).
Saturday 28 June – 7.30 pm – The Dance House, Gouldsbrook View, North Street, Crewkerne, Somerset, TA18 7AL.
Doors open at 6.45 pm.
Tickets can also be purchased by emailing concertsinthewest@gmail.com or by calling the Tourist Information Centre in Crewkerne on 01460 75928.
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