We are always keen to reflect current teaching and interests in the syllabus and consult widely to ensure it remains relevant to a wide demographic. This year we have introduced classes for Slam Poetry, DJ, Songwriting and Composition – encouraging different musical styles, not just classical.
The Festival Gig will give very young, beginner musicians a chance to perform in a bigger scale venue (The Kings House) – these are all the musicians from Bedford Music Service’s Saturday morning music centre – the vast majority are primary age.
More classes for new commers – ‘My first Festival for Choirs’, ‘Have a go’ class. Also new classes for SEND in S&D (in addition to the long standing celebration morning).
The world renowned Philharmonia is sponsoring the Concerto class to celebrate their 80th birthday.
To benefit more performers, we have increased the number of piano/keyboard classes where entrants will be able to choose whether to play their piece on a piano or an electronic keyboard with touch sensitive keys and a pedal. Please make your selection during the entry process.
Festival Venues
The Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama takes place across multiple prestigious venues in Bedford during its 8-day residency.
The majority of the week’s classes are held within the Bedford Corn Exchange suite of venues, which has been the Festival’s primary home since its inception in 1921.
Classes are held in the main Bedford Corn Exchange auditorium, upstairs in its smaller Howard Room venue, and at the Harpur Suite in St Paul’s Square.
Additional classes are also held at King’s House Bedford on Ampthill Road and the organ classes will be held at the Bunyan Meeting Rooms on Mill Street
