The Calne Music & Arts Festival (CMAF) committee convened for its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, 13th February, at the Lansdowne Strand Hotel.
2024 marked a significant milestone as the festival’s 50th anniversary, making it the longest-running festival in Wiltshire, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic expression.
The AGM reflected on the highlights of last year's festival, which captivated audiences with a series of exceptional performances. Notably, the Gala Concert featured a specially commissioned work by Ella Roberts, a talented former pupil of John Bentley School. Now a postgraduate student at the Cardiff School for Music & Drama, Roberts’ composition added a contemporary flair to the festival's storied history.
Additionally, the concert by former Calne music teachers Peter Grant and Michelle Sheridan brought nostalgia and local talent to the forefront. A standout moment was the 'Priestley Concert,' organised by the festival's new patron Brett Dean. This unique event spotlighted music from the 1770s, a time when the renowned scientist Joseph Priestley resided in Calne, further intertwining the festival’s legacy with the town's historical narrative.
The committee was re-elected en bloc, with Carole Browne continuing her role as President and John Boaler as Chairman. Their leadership promises to maintain the festival's high standards and commitment to the arts.
Looking ahead, most of the program for this year’s festival, scheduled from 4th to 12th October, is already confirmed. Attendees can look forward to a diverse lineup that includes jazz, folk, world music, and a captivating performance of Mozart’s beloved opera, ‘Cosi fan Tutte.’
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