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1 December 2022

Exposed Magazine

Join Classical Sheffield this December at a wealth of festive concerts and activities across Sheffield and surrounding areas.

This December, there are over 30 events taking place that are all hosted by members of Classical Sheffield – including concerts from the Sheffield University Concert Series, The Snowman with Live Orchestra, Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra and so many more.

Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra, Sheffield’s flagship amateur orchestra since 1945, are hosting Christmas concerts suitable for all ages – engaging with the little ones with egg shakers, bubble machines and dancing, whilst giving older kids a go at conducting the orchestra. Likewise, plenty of people come alone to enjoy the music and community atmosphere, with tickets priced from £4. You can see the full listings below.

Jo Towler, Chair of Classical Sheffield, thinks this December shows how musical the city is:

“The number and range of live musical events happening in this city during December is absolutely fantastic, and I think there is something for everyone to enjoy. We are a city of music-makers, and this is reflected in the number of performances over the next few weeks as we get into the festive spirit. Come join us and be merry!”

As well as providing entertainment for audiences, the music activity is a welcome opportunity for hundreds of music-makers to get together to perform after weeks of rehearsals.

First Position Strings is just one example of many that display how group music-making can be fulfilling whatever your age or ability. They offer adult beginner string players (Grades 1-5) the opportunity to experience playing a part in a string orchestra, and to practice the skills required for successful ensemble playing at the early stages of learning to play an instrument.

“Being part of First Position Strings has been a fantastic introduction to ensemble playing. My playing and confidence have grown so much since I joined and it has enabled me to then also join an orchestra. Making music together is such a wonderful thing for both the heart and mind.” Gill Wilson, violinist

Classical Sheffield is an organisation that aims to bring together all the classical music that is being made right here in Sheffield and the surrounding area, as well as the people making it happen, and sharing it with everyone. As a collective, the organisation has held three hugely successful Sheffield-wide Classical Weekend Festivals, with the last one in March 2019 reaching over 10,000 people, introducing classical music to thousands of new audience members. The next Classical Weekend will take place from in March 2023 from Friday 17th – Sunday 19th.

To find out more about upcoming events and what’s in store over the Christmas period, head over to Classicalsheffield.org.uk