Alistair McGowan, Peter Donohoe for Ulverston International Music Festival 2025

Ulverston International Music Festival 2025 has revealed its line-up ranging from classical and folk to jazz and tango running from Friday, May 30th to Sunday, June 8th.

This year sees the launch of experiential events including afternoon tea at Levens Hall and dinner at Brantwood (the former home of painter John Ruskin) following on from a musical cruise on Coniston’s steam yacht gondola.

Among the performers are impressionist and comic Alistair McGowan who has turned his hand to piano recitals, taking place on Saturday, May 31st at the Victoria Hall, Grange-over-Sands. 

Fellow celebrity pianist Peter Donohoe, winner of the Tchaikovsky Piano Competition, will also be giving a solo performance at Ulverston Parish Church on the launch evening.

Delia Stevens and Will Pound add their own unique folk style to classical works at Ulverston’s Coro on Sunday, June 1st while some of Europe’s top instrumentalists come together at Ulverston Parish Church on Tuesday, June 3rd.

Back by popular demand are Alberto Mesirca, performing solo guitar pieces all written by Spanish composers, and cellist Maja Bogdanovic, with a recital of famous cello sonatas.

Towards the end of the week, expect Americana from the likes of bandoneonist Marcelo Nisinman in ‘Tango ‘Til Twilight’ and jazz artists Claire Martin and Rob Barron celebrating the works of George Gershwin.

Founding artistic director Anthony Hewitt said: ‘We’re really excited to launch innovative formats and experiential events this year which pair live music with fine food.

‘More of our venues offer an element of an outdoor experience too, in which we can share with our audience the unique opportunity to connect music with nature and the outdoors. 

‘We’re aiming to reach new audiences by creating a vibrant and exciting way in which we absorb and appreciate the incredible talent of our international artists.’

For tickets and details go to ulverstonmusicfestival.co.uk.
Alistair McGowan, Peter Donohoe for Ulverston International Music Festival 2025