Elmore Chamber Music Festival 2025

The Elmore Chamber Music Festival (ECMF) returns this summer from 6th–9th August 2025, bringing four days of exceptional music to the heart of Gloucestershire. This year’s exciting line-up features a diverse and inspiring group of musicians, showcasing both rising stars and internationally acclaimed artists.Audiences can look forward to performances by the award-winning Novo Quartet, the Festival’s own Elmore Quartet, and the virtuosic Toby Hughes, one of the UK’s leading double bassists. Also featured in the programme are renowned organist Henry Fairs; pianists Ben Powell and Alexia Daphne Eleftheriadou; clarinettist James Gilbert; Inis Oírr Asano on viola and recorder; and the vibrant Scottie Thompson Jazz Trio, bringing a fresh, genre-crossing flair to this year’s festival.Held annually in the beautifully preserved 13th-century church of St. John the Baptist in Elmore, ECMF is set against the idyllic backdrop of the Gloucestershire countryside, just a stone’s throw from the scenic banks of the River Severn. Each August, this historic venue transforms into a space for intimate, powerful performances that celebrate the richness and diversity of chamber music.Founded in 2020, the Festival has rapidly established itself as one of the UK’s most exciting chamber music events, known for its warm community feel, exceptional programming, and commitment to artistic excellence. The inaugural ECMF took place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. When government restrictions made indoor performances impossible, the festival adapted within days, relocating outdoors with the generous support of the local community. This spirit of resilience and collaboration laid the foundation for what ECMF has become today.In 2021, the Festival returned to its intended home—St. John the Baptist Church—and has continued to flourish ever since. Audiences have been treated to memorable performances by musicians such as Petr Prause, Victor Lim, Rosa Hartley, Filip Michalak, the De Beauvoir Piano Trio, and many more. With each passing year, ECMF continues to attract a growing audience and a vibrant mix of performers.Beyond the concerts, ECMF is deeply committed to education and outreach. Since 2021, the Festival has developed several initiatives to support young and emerging talent. These include a pianist masterclass, a performer showcase, and a composition workshop for young composers. Each year, around 20 students from local schools participate, gaining firsthand experience working with professional musicians and engaging creatively with music in an inspiring setting.The Festival also places a strong emphasis on hospitality and local partnership. Before and after each concert, audiences are invited to relax at the Festival Bar, run in collaboration with Gloucester’s award-winning Pelican Inn. The bar offers a carefully curated selection of drinks, featuring local ciders and freshly brewed cask ales from the nearby Wye Valley Brewery, enhancing the festival experience with the very best of Gloucestershire’s food and drink.Whether you're a long-time classical music lover or a first-time visitor, ECMF promises a warm welcome and a chance to discover exceptional music in a unique and magical setting. With its blend of top-tier performances, community spirit, and historic charm, the Elmore Chamber Music Festival continues to grow as a highlight of the UK’s summer music calendar.