What kind of music do we present?

Each year, our programmes feature a variety of artists performing as soloists (often giving one or more piano recitals), duos, trios, quartets and sometimes larger choral and orchestral ensembles. In addition to the core chamber repertoire by classical and romantic composers, we regularly include examples of early music, works from the baroque era, from the twentieth century and compositions by contemporary composers. 

It has also become a tradition for us to present one or two concerts a year – often at Christmas and at midsummer – in a broader range of musical styles through performances of medieval music, jazz, Klezmer, tango, cabaret and more. A number of these groups have been sell-outs and come back to play for us on more than one occasion by popular request!

Across the year, we always aim to achieve a balance and variety of music. Quality is our watchword - and while it is not always possible to please everybody with every concert, the feedback we receive suggests that audiences greatly appreciate and enjoy what we are able to offer.

Where do concerts take place?

For much of the year, concerts are evenly divided between Monmouth and the society’s original home in the village of St Briavels which is situated approximately halfway between Chepstow and Monmouth overlooking the Wye Valley. In St Briavels Church, we are fortunate in having a fine concert grand piano, generously donated by one of our members. The intimate setting and superb acoustic in the church make for memorable performances.

Over the years, the society has presented concerts in a number of other venues from Chepstow in the south to as far north as the Bishops Palace in Hereford. These have included historic churches such as those in Llandogo, Monmouth, Hoarwithy and Hom Green Chapel near Ross-on-Wye. A recent initiative has been to hold recitals in the outstanding new performing arts centre at Monmouth School for Girls.