Budleigh Music Festival: A great opportunity to get into classical music with the whole family
Posted by Stephanie Darkes
Every year, the Budleigh Music Festival transforms Budleigh Salterton into one of the county’s most exciting family cultural destinations. For nearly two decades, this event has been drawing internationally acclaimed classical artists to intimate venues along the coast, creating magical moments for music lovers of all ages. What started as a community vision has evolved into something rather wonderful – proving that the most memorable musical experiences for families don’t always happen in grand concert halls, but in welcoming seaside settings where children and adults can discover the joy of live music together.
The Story Behind the Music
The vision for the festival came from residents Roger and Brenda Bowen, whose inspiration to bring the arts to Budleigh Salterton captured the community’s imagination. In 2005, they launched the Budleigh Salterton Festival of the Arts with an ambitious goal: to showcase a diverse range of artistic expression, from visual art exhibitions to jazz concerts and drama, with classical music at its heart.
Twenty years later, their legacy continues to flourish under the leadership of Kate Somerby, the Chair of Budleigh Music Festival, bringing world-renowned artists to this picturesque town on the Jurassic Coast.
Music has this extraordinary power to bring people together across all boundaries,” says Kate. “At Budleigh, we’ve created something truly special – a festival where internationally renowned artists perform in our intimate church setting, where audiences can connect with musicians in a way that’s impossible in larger venues, and where the community feels a genuine sense of ownership. That magical combination is what makes our festival unique.
2025: A Festival to Remember
This year’s programme is runs from 27 June to 5 July across venues in Budleigh Salterton. The lineup reads like a who’s who of classical music.
Piano legend Sir Stephen Hough will grace the festival with Beethoven’s Waldstein Sonata and Schumann’s Carnaval – an unmissable opportunity to hear one of the world’s finest pianists in an intimate setting. The Bath Philharmonia joins forces with Zeynep Ozsuca for a Fourth of July celebration featuring Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue, while the London African Gospel Choir will close the festival with their groundbreaking “Graceland Reimagined.”
Music theatre fans shouldn’t miss the rare performance of John Williams’ Escapades by Jess Gillam alongside the Band of HM Royal Marines Plymouth. For families, Sir Michael Morpurgo partners with acclaimed cellist Clare O’Connell for a magical storytelling performance of Carnival of the Animals.
The festival also celebrates emerging talent, featuring 19-year-old Brazilian violin virtuoso Guido Sant’Anna with Leeds Competition prizewinner Ariel Lanyi. It showcases local musicians through the Devon Youth Wind Orchestra’s Side by Side performances with professionals.
Nurturing the Next Generation
The festival’s commitment to young people runs deep.
As a charity, one of our aims is to make classical music accessible to young people who may not otherwise have opportunities to play and enjoy it,” explains Kate Somerby. “Alongside our programme, we will once again be offering those opportunities to young people through our partnerships with local schools and groups like Future Talent, who nurture exceptional young musicians.
Perfect for Families: The Musical Treasure Hunt
One event I’m particularly excited about is the Family Day featuring a Musical Treasure Hunt across town. For just £5 per person, families can enjoy four engaging musical workshops plus a finale event with Artistic Director Jason Thornton. It’s designed for all ages, with no musical experience required – you can participate or observe.
The workshops sound brilliant and include authentic world percussion with Drum Devon, handbell ringing with the Ottery St Mary Handbell Ringers. High-energy body percussion with former STOMP cast member Ollie Tunmer, and relaxing in a Gong Bath with local therapist Alli Colledge.
The treasure hunt, organised in partnership with Shop Budleigh, encourages families to explore local shops while collecting stamps at musical events. The day culminates with “Rhythms, Beats and Games” led by Jason Thornton, followed by the prize draw. It’s a great way to create unforgettable family memories while supporting local businesses.
Why Budleigh Works
What makes this festival special isn’t just the world-class programming – it’s how it brings together the community, celebrates local talent alongside international stars, and makes classical music accessible to everyone. From intimate morning recitals to spectacular evening performances, there’s something for every musical taste.
The festival proves that great art doesn’t only happen in major cities. Sometimes, the most memorable cultural experiences happen in small seaside towns where the community’s passion and vision create something truly extraordinary.
Limited tickets remain for select performances, so I’d recommend booking soon. Click here for the Family Day treasure hunt specifically.
Whether you’re a classical music devotee, or simply curious about experiencing something new, the Budleigh Music Festival offers the perfect excuse to explore this beautiful corner of Devon while enjoying world-class performances. It’s events like these that make our county such a special place to live and visit.
Stephanie x
Stephanie Darkes is a freelance writer and content creator who has been writing about the great things she finds in Exeter and Devon for nine years on her blogzine, Exploring Exeter. Her passion for showcasing the county’s incredible food scene, independent businesses, arts, and beauty spots has also led to her writing for Devon Life, Exeter Life, The Exeter Magazine, Exeter Tomorrow, Exeter Daily, and GROW Exeter. Follow her adventures and local discoveries at www.exploringexeter.co.uk and connect with her on LinkedIn.
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Tags: children, Devon, family, south west