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01/11/2025
Another glorious summer of music has drawn to a close in Thaxted, and what a season it’s been. The 2025 Thaxted Festival filled our historic town with the sounds of world-class performance, emerging talent, and joyful community spirit - all set against the backdrop of perfect summer weekends (and a few well-timed breaks in the clouds!).
From the first note in June to the final encore in July, this season offered something for every listener: orchestral brilliance, intimate recitals, bold new works, and plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the Festival atmosphere.
This year’s programme celebrated both classical heritage and fresh innovation. London Mozart Players opened the season in spectacular style with a vibrant evening of Beethoven and Mozart, joined by Charlotte Saluste-Bridoux, one of the brightest young violinists on today’s concert scene.
The following weekends saw audiences treated to a wide range of musical experiences: from the soaring power of opera and choral masterpieces to jazz/blues that set toes tapping in the aisles. Nicky Spence’s heartfelt recital My Father’s Son stood out as one of the emotional highlights of the season - praised by critics for its sensitivity and bold programming.
And as ever, Thaxted proved a home for rising stars, with outstanding performances from the next generation of classical artists who are sure to make waves on the international stage.
Inclusivity has always been central to Thaxted Festival’s ethos, and this year was no exception. Families gathered for an afternoon of adventure at the Audley End Miniature Railway, where the Haverhill Youth and Community Band entertained visitors amid the trees - a true highlight for young listeners and parents alike.
Education work has always been central to Thaxted Festival. Our education projects continued to flourish too, with around 300 local pupils attending rehearsals, workshops and activities built around the performance experience, inspiring the next generation of music lovers.
Whether enjoying a glass of wine in the hospitality marquee or taking in the magical light filtering through the church windows, festivalgoers once again praised Thaxted’s unique atmosphere. The combination of extraordinary music, warm community spirit, and the beauty of the historic Parish Church makes each evening unforgettable.
Our artists frequently comment on how welcoming Thaxted audiences are - attentive, enthusiastic, and deeply engaged. It’s this connection between performer and listener that makes the Festival so special, year after year.
As one visiting critic put it:
“Unforgettable Thaxted recital: place, music and performance in perfect congruence.”
We couldn’t agree more!
As we dim the lights on another successful season, our thoughts already turn to next summer - and a very special one at that. Thaxted Festival 2026 will mark 40 years since the Festival began in its modern form, and plans are well underway to make it a year to remember.
Expect a blend of fresh artistic directions, returning favourites, and a few surprises along the way - all curated under the guidance of new Artistic Director Christopher Weston.
Stay tuned for artist teasers over the next few month and remember, members of our Thaxted Music Lovers scheme will enjoy priority booking and advance news - so make sure your membership is up to date from early 2026.
Thaxted Festival 2026
Friday 19 June - Sunday 12 July
Mark your calendar, spread the word, and prepare to celebrate four decades of world-class music-making in the heart of Essex.
As ever, we’re grateful to everyone - musicians, volunteers, audiences, and supporters - who make this Festival thrive. Here’s to another 40 years of music, friendship, and unforgettable moments under the soaring roof of Thaxted Parish Church!