Bedford Music Club (BMC) is delighted to announce its exciting 2025 festival, taking place against the backdrop of Black History Month.
Black Voices (Friday, 24 – Sunday, 26 October) brings together extraordinary artists to celebrate the richness of Black music through concerts, talks, community and educational events.
The music will illuminate stories of history, resistance, faith and joy. “There is so much talent in Bedford and beyond, it is a privilege to be able to showcase it,” said festival organiser, Duncan Fraser.
“People of all ages and all backgrounds are involved in the events and we are looking forward to building on the success of last year’s Italian festival.”
Events take place in the heart of the community at All Saints Church, Queen’s Park and at The Higgins, with free and/or affordable tickets available for all events.
Artists include London Adventist Chorale, an award-winning choir renowned for its vibrant, soulful sound and stunning choral blend, world-renowned double bassist Leon Bosch, acclaimed British pianist Beatrice Nicholas and Vox Urbane – a ground-breaking and unique professional vocal ensemble representing marginalised voices from all backgrounds.
Pupils from six primary schools in Bedford have been working with Vox Urbane to sing together and open the festival on Friday, 24 October and on Saturday (11am – 1pm), a free study morning will be held at the Higgins to investigate From Hiawatha to Hip-Hop.
Hear about the huge success of Coleridge Taylor’s Hiawatha, the message of Hip Hop (Robert Beckford) and where Black voices are headed (David Bryan).
“It feels ever more important to celebrate Black voices,” said Duncan.
“We’ve got 230 children from six primary schools singing at All Saints in Queen’s Park on Friday (24 October), which has never happened before.
“They have been working with the Master of the King’s Music, Erolyn Wallen, and she will ‘Zoom’ into the final rehearsal with the children.
“Last year’s Italian festival was a roaring success, and we are looking forward to building on that this year. There is so much talent in Bedford and beyond, and it is a privilege to showcase it. People of all ages and backgrounds are involved; one sky, one world, one people.”
To read the full programme and book tickets, head to the Bedford Music Club website at bedfordmusicclub.com
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