A new era begins here

It will come as no surprise to hear how much I have been looking forward to sending news of the 2021 Festival, with concerts from outstanding soloists and chamber ensembles, masterclasses, and festival debut performances from some of the most exciting young artists of their generation.

Would you expect anything less?

Undeterred by the unpredictable situation, we are working positively and creatively towards next year with plenty of new features to keep you entertained, including family events & workshops, theatre, art and outdoor adventures in our breath-taking surroundings.

Ever committed to excellence in performance and education we take our role within the region seriously, and as the festival enters a new era, supporting local culture and business will be a key ingredient of our future.

No matter the obstacles, we’re building flexibility into our plans, so no matter rain or shine we’ll be here for you next summer.

Watch this space for the announcement of our festival dates and line up!

Personally, I am most looking forward to meeting you, our loyal audience and many supporters alongside new audiences who have yet to experience and revel in the variety of our festival.

We are building in some important changes as to how we connect with you, with new ingredients to our website and publicity, making it even easier for you to book tickets and access all the information you need.

The power of understanding and healing through music has been one of the most positive factors we have come to appreciate so much in recent months.

A festival of music, creativity, discovery and friendship set in the stunning Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has surely never been more vital.

From all of us at Lake District Summer Music, we look forward to sharing our summer experience with you very soon.

Stephen Threlfall
Artistic Director

Welcome to Lake District Summer Music, our international arts festival based in the Southern Lake District with chamber music at its heart. Each year, LDSM hosts over 40 events in stunning, intimate venues in locations such as Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside, Grange-Over-Sands and Ulverston. Events feature internationally-acclaimed artists from the classical music field, concerts nurturing and showcasing emerging musical talent, unique artist collaborations, award-winning film screenings, world premieres including LDSM commissions, and large-scale choral works involving our excellent local societies.

Keeping abreast of changing tastes and trends, we explore new possibilities whether they be artistic or geographical. We strive to ensure our programme is as engaging and inclusive as possible.

Thank you to all our audiences and artists that made the 35th Festival a huge success. Unfortunately our 2020 festival has been cancelled due to the ongoing Coronavirus situation but we hope to see you in 2021.

Follow the burgeoning careers of young soloists and ensembles spotlighted in our Festival Début Concert series. Masterclasses and dedicated coaching from our acclaimed Festival artists further reveal the infinite details of preparation behind every performance and widen horizons with the wisdom of experience.

Learn more

A new era begins here

Watch this space for the announcement of our festival dates and line up!

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