Music lovers can enjoy works by Beethoven, Liszt, and Fauré, while younger audiences will be treated to a special showcase of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, alongside the London premiere of four new children’s pieces
Hammersmith is set to welcome a new addition to its vibrant music scene this May, as the Black Lion Festival debuts with a three-day classical music celebration. Taking place from 9-11 May at the Grade II*-listed St Peter’s Church in Black Lion Lane, the festival promises a rich programme featuring international musicians and a selection of timeless compositions.
Music lovers can enjoy works by Beethoven, Liszt, and Fauré, while younger audiences will be treated to a special showcase of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, alongside the London premiere of four new children’s pieces. The festival’s goal is to create an inviting atmosphere for all, making classical music accessible and engaging.
A Welcoming Celebration
Festival organiser and Shepherds Bush-based musical entrepreneur Orlanda Bryars is keen to challenge perceptions of classical music as overly formal. “We want to deliver inspiring performances in an intimate and historic setting,” she said. “West London has a huge amount of musical talent and interest, and we’d love for this to become an annual event. We also feel strongly about introducing children to classical music from an early age.”
The festival is the result of a collaboration between Bryars, St Peter’s organist and music director Travis Baker, and Australian composer Lee Bradshaw. Together, they have curated a programme designed to captivate both seasoned classical enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
World-Class Performances
The festival opens on Friday 9 May at 7pm with a mesmerising performance by acclaimed Australian pianist Stefan Cassomenos, who will present Franz Liszt’s solo piano transcription of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9—a powerful and intimate interpretation of the iconic masterpiece.
On Saturday 10 May, the West London Chamber Choir, the choir of St Peter’s, and the Cirrus String Quartet will come together for a moving performance of Fauré’s Requiem, arranged by Michael Higgins. Under the direction of Hilary Campbell, the concert will feature organ accompaniment by Travis Baker.
Kinder Proms for Families
Sunday 11 May will be dedicated to younger audiences with the Kinder Proms, a family-friendly event from 2.30-5pm. The programme will feature four new compositions inspired by the poetry of Winnie-the-Pooh author A.A. Milne, composed by Lee Bradshaw. The event will also include an engaging musical retelling of Peter and the Wolf, bringing together storytelling and music in a vibrant experience for children.
In a heartfelt gesture of inclusivity, a single parent concession has been introduced to ensure all families can participate. “I was widowed when I was five months pregnant with my daughter, so it was really important for me to include this,” said Orlanda, who is an ambassador for the charity Widowed and Young (WAY).
Following her previous work organising concerts with her late partner Julian before his sudden passing in 2019, Orlanda sees the Black Lion Festival as a way to look ahead with hope. “Music is so emotive, and Julian would have been so pleased. He was incredibly passionate about this.”
Tickets for the Black Lion Festival are available now, with options for individual concerts and family-friendly packages. Visit the festival’s website for more details and booking information.
