Looking for an event where can you:
- Let your hair down dancing to a swing band
- Enjoy piano performances, two choirs and a steel band
- Sing your heart out to old school assembly songs
- Take part in drum and singing workshops
- Have a go at handbell ringing
All in the same weekend?
The answer is Kneesall’s St Bartholomew’s Church and Bill Hemsley Community Centre on Saturday 16th May and Sunday 17th May. Kneesall’s church building houses both the parish church and the village hall. As with many historic buildings, ongoing maintenance is always needed, and bringing people together for a full weekend of music is a fun way to raise funds while strengthening the community. This year’s bigger Music Marathon will include a Saturday evening Pie and Pea Supper accompanied by the Ravenshead Swing Band. Dancing may well happen, although it is not compulsory.
Earlier on Saturday there will be workshops led by Beccy Burgess Singing and Milla’s West African Drumming. No previous experience is required for either workshop, making them a great opportunity to try something new. For those who would prefer simply to listen, there will also be performances during the workshops, as well as The Piano Barn’s Feast of Piano Duets, where students of all levels will showcase their recent work. Sunday will begin with a lively session of old school assembly songs, alongside some newer favourites. Visitors can also enjoy a performance by the Kneesall Knightingales, whose programme will celebrate the theme of sunshine and happiness.
Later in the afternoon the Edwinstowe Handbell Ringers will perform before leading a ‘have a go’ handbell ringing session for anyone who would like to try it.
The weekend will conclude with a finale concert featuring the Dukeries Singers, Piano Barn students and the Steelpantastic steel band, bringing the Music Marathon to an energetic close. Refreshments will be available throughout the weekend, and there will also be a grand prize draw with prizes including a £100 first prize, a luxury hamper, a bottle of champagne and more. The aim of the weekend is to make the event accessible to everyone. Many sessions will operate on a pay-what-you-can basis, with a minimum donation of £2.50, meaning visitors could attend the whole weekend for as little as £25.00.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.kneesallmusicmarathon.co.uk. For further information, or to purchase draw tickets, email sue@kneesallmusicmarathon.co.uk.
Everyone is welcome.