A Little History of the Festival.

The Ashwell Music Festival which takes place in Ashwell Parish Church, a Grade One listed building from the 14th and 15th centuries, was started by Canon Jack Catterick in 1953. Since that time the Festival has grown from the original conception of a summer school for young people, to invoke professional musicians, some with national and indeed international reputations.

As a consequence, much as we would like to retain free entry to concerts relying on donations to cover costs, sadly it is no longer a viable option. Even so, we believe that we offer unbelievable value for money, making available performance of a high standard on your doorstop without the aggravation and cost of travelling into London, as well as paying London prices.

We are also offering two concerts free, relying on your generosity to cover costs. One of these concerts, by young musicians from Loral schools, maintains Jack Catterick's original aim.

Should we he fortunate enough to make any profit, this will he devoted to improving facilities for concerts.

For this year, The Friends of St Mary's who organise the Festival have, with help, purchased some chairs which we hope will he available in time for this year's Festival.

Eric Shegog - Festival Committee Chairman