‘A celebration of music’s power to unite’ - Devon music festival returns with world premieres and dance

The Ashburton Chamber Music Festival will take place from 18 to 27 July 2025, bringing world-class musicians to South Devon.

Now in its sixth year, the festival offers a unique programme of intimate concerts in local homes and venues near Ashburton and Widecombe-in-the-Moor. 

Highlights include a world premiere by Devon composer Gabrielle Mills and a new contemporary dance performance by Lois Taylor, a dance lecturer at Falmouth University.

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Under the artistic direction of internationally acclaimed violist David Yang, the festival’s format “emphasises community and accessibility,” with events such as free open rehearsals, pre-concert talks, and family concerts.

David Yang said: “The Ashburton Chamber Music Festival is a celebration of music’s power to unite people. By hosting the musicians within private homes and involving local volunteers in planning, we create an environment where the experience of a concert is far more personal.”

He added: “Audiences connect with the performers, witness the process of music-making, and enjoy the rich cultural exchange that only a close-knit community can offer.”

New for 2025 is a dance collaboration with Lois Taylor, who will perform at St Andrew’s Church, Ashburton, on 26 July. 

The festival will also feature a new ‘Nachtmusik’ concert held in a Dartmoor chapel, starting at 9pm in darkness with no applause.

Ticket prices are scaled (£9, £12, or £18 pay-what-you-can), and many events are free to ensure that cost is not a barrier to attendance.

For more information and tickets, visit ashburtonchambermusicfestival.org.uk or contact boxoffice@ashburtonarts.org.uk.

The festival is hosted by Ashburton Arts Centre, described by The Guardian as “one of the best small live music venues in the UK.”