Classical Music on the Edge of England
Concerts for Craswall was set up as a charity in 2002 to promote concerts given by young musicians just beginning their professional careers, a well as artists of national and international repute. Through revenue generated from these concerts and the donations received from the Friends of Concerts for Craswall and other sponsors, the Charity aims to raise funds to help with the maintenance and upkeep of the fabric of St Mary’s church, Craswall. Also to widen the appeal of classical and chamber music locally.
Concerts
Concerts for Craswall attracts the very best internationally acclaimed chamber and orchestral players.
Our concerts seek to present engaging classical and choral musical programmes. Mainly from the European tradition, these sometimes include a“modern” (in the last 100 years) composition!
We also offer the opportunity for promising students launching their careers to perform. Our spring concerts often give gifted young musicians from across Herefordshire the chance to showcase their talents.
Similarly, talented amateur artists from across the UK are invited to play allowing them to continue their love of music.
Audiences have the opportunity to mingle with the musicians over an interval drink and a nibble. Equally, the musicians are given sustenance and accommodation in volunteers’ homes.
History
Concerts for Craswall began when the threat of closure to the local church of St Mary’s led local music enthusiast Sue Norrington to organise a classical music concert to raise funds.
The hugely successful initial performance proved to be the start of a series of annual concerts.
Granted charitable status in 2004, Concerts for Craswall is a thriving organisation with a small board of Trustees.
Committed local volunteers, including members of the St Mary’s Women’s Guild, and other residents, contribute their talents to make the concerts a memorable experience.
In acknowledgement of her achievements, Sue was awarded the BEM in 2016 for services to music and to community.
Our concerts have brought a greater understanding and appreciation of music to this rural area of South Herefordshire.
Venues



Concerts for Craswall present three concerts each year.
In the Spring, a chamber concert at St Michael’s church, Michaelchurch Escley.
In the Summer, the splendour of Dore Abbey, Abbeydore affords the opportunity for larger orchestral or chorale concerts.
And finally, the small Norman church of St Mary’s, presents a chamber concert each Autumn.
These are precious venues because of their special acoustic properties, intimacy of experience, history and beautiful surroundings.
Further information
In addition to the music, Concerts for Craswall donates to maintain, enhance and promote the culture and heritage of the Craswall community.

As a small charity, we are dependent on Friends and Patrons to ensure the financial future of the charity, inviting world class musicians play for us. We remain indebted to them all for making Concerts for Craswall such a success.
Help us conserve Craswall’s historic and cultural heritage, attract the best amateur and professional musicians and create a broader appreciation of classical music.
Join Concerts for Craswall and pay a small annual subscription. See our Become a Friend page.
We welcome additional volunteers willing to help us run the charity; offer accommodation for visiting musicians; identify suitable musicians to perform at our concerts; or to assist on concert weekends with a variety of activities. To learn more, please contact us.
Or help by making a donation to Concerts for Craswall today.