Ulverston International Music Festival is returning to the Coro and beyond for its 2025 festival from 30 May – 8 June. Now in its 21st year, this feast of music – curated by classical pianist and Ulverstonian Anthony Hewitt – is a celebration of live music of a wide variety of styles and genres – from classical and folk to jazz and tango – captured through its motto ‘more than classical’.

Whilst the focus of the action is in Ulverston and at the Coro, the organisers of this year’s festival of over 20 concerts have ventured further afield with the launch of experiential events under the umbrella of ‘Sound Bites’. Indulge in a sumptuous afternoon tea at Levens Hall and dinner at Brantwood (the former home of painter John Ruskin) following on from a unique musical cruise on Coniston’s steam yacht gondola. Two large scale performances are primed for the majestic setting of Cartmel Priory – a choral concert and Max Richter’s mesmerising Four Seasons Recomposed.

Included in the line-up are impressionist and comic Alistair McGowan who has turned his hand to piano recitals, meanwhile fellow celebrity pianist Peter Donohoe, winner of the famed Tchaikovsky Piano Competition, will give a solo recital at Ulverston Parish Church on the launch evening May 30th.
Delia Stevens and Will Pound add their own unique folk flavour to classical works at the Coro on 1 June, whilst some of Europe’s top instrumentalists come together at Ulverston Parish Church on 3 June. Celebrated percussionist Colin Curry also headlines on June 4th where two pianos and two percussionists will raise the roof and shake the very foundations of the Coro!

Towards the end of the week we can expect a touch of Americana from the likes of bandoneonist Marcelo Nisinman in ‘Tango ‘Til Twilight’ and jazz artists Claire Martin and Rob Barron showcasing the works of George Gershwin.

Ulverston International Music Festival continues to welcome audience of all ages and encourages young people to attend through its offer of heavily discounted ticket prices for under 30s.

Commenting on the 2025 festival, founding artistic director Anthony Hewitt explained: “We’re really excited to launch innovative formats and experiential events this year which pair live music with fine food. More of our venues offer an element of an outdoor experience too, in which we can share with our audience the unique opportunity to connect music with nature and the outdoors. We’re aiming to reach new audiences by creating a vibrant and exciting way in which we absorb and appreciate the incredible talent of our international artists.”

Tickets can be purchased from www.thecoro.co.uk/uimf and via www.ulverstonmusicfestival.co.uk. Tickets are also available to purchase ‘on the door’ on the night.