A music festival celebrating the life and legacy of Worcestershire’s best known composer is underway,
The Elgar Festival, which runs for a week, features 27 events across 15 venues in Worcester and the surrounding areas.
Traditionally, the event is held on the weekend closest to Sir Edward Elgar’s birthday on June 2.
The festival includes symphonic concerts, chamber music, choral performances, recitals, workshops, street performances and more.
Kenneth Woods, artistic director of the Elgar Festival, said: “We are delighted and excited that this year’s Elgar Festival is now here, a week of the best of British music, played in the heart of Elgar country.
“The 2026 Elgar Festival really is a once in a lifetime celebration.
“Come along and enjoy it with us.”
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The programme spans the full breadth of Elgar’s work, from songs and chamber pieces to his most famous orchestral works.
The English Symphony Orchestra and the Elgar Festival Chorus will perform the gala concert at Worcester Cathedral at 7.30pm on Saturday, May 30.
Other highlights include chamber orchestra performances, recitals by internationally renowned musicians such as April Fredrick, and the ‘Come and Play Elgar’ participatory event.
There will also be a Young Singers Masterclass, an exhibition at The Guildhall featuring Elgar memorabilia, and several free events, including relaxed concerts, Q&As, a guided walk, and a film screening.
The festival was created by Worcester City Council in 2018 and has since doubled in size.
For tickets and a full programme of events, visit www.elgarfestival.org.
