Josephine Stephenson In Time Like Air (Uk Premiere) John Adams Gnarly Buttons Steve Reich Reich/Richter George Jackson - Conductor Mark Simpson - Clarinet Two iconic American contemporary masters meet tonight. John Adams’ work travels through musical history, and the composer’s own history too, and is brought to life tonight by Artist in Residence Mark Simpson. Then, it’s one of the great Steve Reich’s most remarkable recent works – cool, elegant music inspired by art and written for film. Before that, George Jackson kicks off his Ensemble 10:10 debut with the beautiful, unique voice of the multi-genre composer Josephine Stephenson.

Stravinsky Suite Italienne Fauré Violin Sonata No.1 In A Major, Op.13 Brahms Violin Sonata No.3 In D Minor, Op.108 Ravel Tzigane Simone Lamsma- Violin Jonathan Fournel - Piano ‘This performance was the most impressive one I’ve ever heard – on recordings or in the concert hall – an amazing artistic feat’ – Bachtrack One of our former Artists in Residence, Simone Lamsma has given many outstanding performances in Liverpool. But today, in partnership with pianist Jonathan Fournel, she shares a more intimate side of her artistry. Stravinsky at his most playful, Fauré and Brahms at their most romantic, and Ravel’s ear-tingling pyrotechnics: it’s a very personal portrait of a violinist we’ve grown to love.

Junyan Chen won Second Prize at the Leeds International Piano Competition 2024 also winning the chamber music prize and Alexandra Dariescu award for a work by a woman composer.

Police Dog Hogan are a high-energy and eclectic eight-piece, combining fiddle, trumpet, mandolin, drums and guitars with four-part harmonies in an exuberant and genre-defying fusing of country, pop, folk, and rocking urban bluegrass. Much-loved Guardian columnist Tim Dowling adds his banjo to the musical mix. The Sunday Times has described them as “wonderful”; the Telegraph named them one of its ‘favourite new bands”; Mark Radcliffe on Radio 2 said a “great night out was guaranteed” at their joyful shows; and veteran DJ Johnnie Walker praises their gigs as “a really good, fun time”. Eliot James (of Kaiser Chiefs, Bloc Party, Noah and the Whale, and Two Door Cinema Club fame) produced the band’s second CD, and Al Scott (Seth Lakeman, Oysterband, The Levellers, Asian Dub Foundation) oversaw the new album, ‘Wild By the Side of the Road’, which spent several weeks in the official UK Americana charts. Police Dog Hogan were one of only three UK bands invited to Nashville to perform at the prestigious Americana Music Association Awards, where DJ Bob Harris – in town for the awards – snapped them up for a recording that has become one of the most-watched YouTube videos on his “Under the Apple Tree Sessions” channel.

Punk icon Toyah Willcox has just as much attitude now as she did when she burst on to the music scene in the 1980s with the hit singles ‘It’s A Mystery’, ‘I Wanna Be Free’, ‘IEYA’ and ‘Thunder In The Mountains’. She had previously appeared in the films Quadrophenia and Jubilee. From punk princess to high priestess of TV, Toyah Willcox is a uniquely gifted performer. Charismatic, outspoken and impossible to categorise, she is one of Britain’s iconic household names – an award-winning rock legend as well as a much-loved actress and music composer. This is a unique chance to experience Toyah with a full live band performing a set of her hit singles and classic songs.

What is an alcoholic? Join critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, Taskmaster champion, and award-winning broadcaster John Robins in conversation about alcohol addiction and the journey to sobriety. John will be heading out on tour to celebrate the publication of his beautifully written, moving and darkly funny forthcoming memoir Thirst. He will tell the story of his life through the lens of alcohol, the drinks that made him, and those that broke him. From his earliest drinking experiences – pretending to be drunk after a sip of champagne aged five, spraying aftershave into his mouth at the school play afterparty, and university nights spent downing red wine alone in his room – to his last drink in 2022 and the journey into sobriety that followed, John will explore our relationship with alcohol through reflections on decades of his own drinking. From hazy memory to sudden clarity he sheds light on subjects from mental health to friendship, from creativity to the lies we tell ourselves, and answers questions such as: are alcoholics born or made? How can we make sense of youthful missteps? And can Buddhism provide relief when dealing with haemorrhoids? John will share insights and epiphanies from the world of addiction and recovery, blending his trademark raw honesty and hilarious digressions with the collective wisdom of alcoholics and those around them to offer a compelling, powerful and morbidly funny narrative for anyone who has ever asked 'why do we drink?', 'why do I drink?' or 'do I drink too much?'. This event will include a special guest interviewer at each event, a rare opportunity for you to put your own questions to John and a chance to purchase a signed copy of Thirst. John Robins is a radio presenter, comedian, Taskmaster champion, and podcaster (How Do You Cope?, The Elis James and John Robins Show, Beef's Golf Club, The Moon Under Water). John has won the prestigious Edinburgh Comedy Award for 'Best Show' (2017); ‘Funniest Show’ at the ARIAS for his Radio 5 Live show with Elis James (2020); ‘UK Podcast of the Year’ for the mental health podcast How Do You Cope? (2021). Throughout his stand-up and radio career he has gained a reputation for speaking candidly and hilariously about his own mental health. In 2024 he won the ‘Radio Times Moment Of The Year’ award at the ARIAS after revealing his struggles with alcohol on How Do You Cope?. His conversation with Adrian Chiles on abstinence vs moderation was one of the most shared articles on The Guardian website and his 2024 nationwide tour, Howl, about addiction and recovery received critical acclaim. Thirst: Twelve Drinks That Saved My Life will be published by Viking on 7th May 2026. Promoted by Crosstown Concerts

Experience the joy and energy of gospel music, with some of the UK's most successful current gospel artists in this concert brought to you by the National Gospel Music Centre here in Liverpool. Whether you are new to gospel music or already part of the fast-growing UK audience for this iconic genre, this concert has something to interest and inspire you. Featuring some of the UK's most celebrated and successful modern artists, the event will showcase brand new work in a world-first performance, along with gospel classics. Gospel music is a genre with extraordinary range, diversity and creativity but with a common thread of love and joy, that has endured and flourished across continents and generations. Most music genres, from rock to R&B can trace their origins and influences to and through gospel music. Whilst gospel is unapologetically rooted in the Christian faith, this event celebrates the music as a genre and welcomes everybody, from all faiths or none. This performance will feature outstanding gospel choirs, alongside individual artists from across the UK in a special one-off performance as part of the programme for the Liverpool Gospel Music Festival. Curated by the National Gospel Music Centre based at Liverpool Lighthouse, the night promises to be a special event not to be missed. Presented in partnership with the National Gospel Music Centre

CSO returns to The Tung Auditorium with a programme drawing inspiration from the jazz roots of the New World. Gershwin’s An American in Paris depicts the city of light in all its glory from an American perspective, whilst Ravel’s masterful Piano Concerto in G major, played by popular local pianist Will Bracken, reflects Ravel’s own travels through North America. Shostakovich’s Jazz Suite No. 2, properly termed Suite for Variety Orchestra, abounds with waltzes, dances and even an American-style marching band. Finally, Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances brings a fittingly energetic programme to a lively close. Promoted by Crosby Symphony Orchestra

Two of Liverpool’s most exciting musical projects, Novelty Island and Credits, are collaborating on a live performance of the Beach Boys’ legendary Pet Sounds for Brian Wilson’s 84th birthday. The surreal, lo-fi pop of Novelty Island’s new album Jigsaw Causeway has received extensive BBC 6 Music airplay and they’ve performed their papier-mache-prop-based live show at Glastonbury. Credits have supported Britpop-legends Shack with their alt-country songwriting and glorious vocal harmonies. The projects will fuse musical and artistic talents for an immersive performance of Pet Sounds on its 60th anniversary and more Beach Boys classics. Presented in partnership with Culture City

Fats Waller wrote his six-movement London Suite during his trip to the UK in 1939. The Suite was later orchestrated for British bandleader Ted Heath. In their inaugural performance as a Tung Affiliate Ensemble, Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats Big Band present their unique version of the London Suite with internationally-renowned pianist Adam Fairhall as soloist. A 'transatlantic trip' becomes the theme for the second half, featuring the Cats' vocalists Jo Robinson-Howarth and Peter Whittles in a selection of swinging songs illustrated with photographs from the University's Cunard Archive. Over the past fifteen years, Adam Fairhall has forged an international reputation as a jazz pianist and keyboard improviser of exceptional versatility and striking individuality. Based near Manchester, England and highly active on that city’s burgeoning creative music scene, he is perhaps best known as the pianist in Nat Birchall’s Coltrane-inspired band, and as an eclectic, ‘Ragtime-to-Free’ solo pianist. Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats big band was formed in 2002 by musical director Catherine Tackley, Professor of Music at the University of Liverpool. Featuring two fantastic vocalists, the band has a wide repertoire, with a particular reputation for authentic performances of swing from the 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. As a result, the band is in high demand to play for vintage dancing. In 2022 the band celebrated its twentieth year with a concert in the Tung Auditorium. Other highlights from the past two decades include performances at venues as diverse as the Royal Northern College of Music, Tatton Park, the Troxy in London and Invisible Wind Factory in Liverpool as well as tours to Ireland, Cornwall and London. Promoted by Dr Jazz and the Cheshire Cats.

Haydn’s two great oratorios The Creation (Die Schöpfung) and The Seasons (Die Jahreszeiten) were composed in 1798 and 1801 respectively, a few years after he had completed the final of his 104 symphonies. The Creation was first performed in Vienna in 1799 and was published in 1800 with text in German and English. It was an instant hit and is widely considered to be one of his masterpieces. In three parts, the oratorio depicts and celebrates the creation of the world largely as narrated in the Book of Genesis. In parts I and II, depicting the creation, the soloists represent the archangels Raphael (bass), Uriel (tenor) and Gabriel (soprano). In part III, the bass and soprano represent Adam and Eve. Dramatically scored with an all-star cast, large chorus and bigger orchestra than was normal at the time, this will be a suitably celebratory and exciting way to end Liverpool Mozart Orchestra's 75th anniversary season! There will be a free pre-concert talk starting at 6.45pm that all ticket holders are invited to attend. Promoted by Liverpool Mozart Orchestra

Part of the Yoko Ono Lennon Lunchtime Concert Series The Department of Music Guest Artists for 2025/2026 are joined by Department of Music students to showcase achievements of performers and composers from across the academic year. Composition students have worked with contemporary pianist Ben Powell and jazz pianist Dan Whieldon throughout the year to hone their craft, and our Guest Artist pianists will perform some of these works in this concert. The Guest Artists will also perform alongside students on both Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses. Join us for this final lunchtime concert of the season and celebrate the fantastic musicality of the University’s Department of Music students. The Tung Auditorium Lunchtime Concert Series is supported by Yoko Ono Lennon via Spirit Foundations If the event is sold out, keep checking the event page for returns, tickets often become available the day before.

The University of Liverpool Symphony Orchestra presents its Summer Concert, celebrating the talent and creativity of our student musicians. The programme features performances from the winners of the annual Student Concerto and Composition competitions, alongside a diverse selection of orchestral repertoire showcasing the ensemble’s skill and energy. Under the direction of conductor Helen Harrison, in her second performance with the orchestra, this concert promises an evening of vibrant music-making and exciting new work. Join us as we mark the close of the academic year with a celebration of musical achievement and collaboration within the University’s thriving performance community.

The Liverpool University Music Society (LUMS) Summer Concert this year will feature various ensembles including the Brass Band, Percussion Ensemble, and the Stage and Screen Orchestra. They will be playing a selection of their favourite pieces from this semester that have been chosen by their members and ensemble leaders. LUMS hope you can come along and join them in celebrating all of the work that has been put together by this amazing group of musicians and student leaders!

Part of the Yoko Ono Lennon Lunchtime Concert Series The penultimate lunchtime concert of the academic year sees a celebration of the University of Liverpool Department of Music students perform alongside musicians of the Liverpool Philharmonic. Performance students have worked in The Tung Auditorium throughout the year, engaging in classes, workshops, and performances. Performers for this lunchtime concert will be drawn from both Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses. Join us at the culmination of the year for a diverse programme of music that celebrates student achievement. The Tung Auditorium Lunchtime Concert Series is supported by Yoko Ono Lennon via Spirit Foundations If the event is sold out, keep checking the event page for returns, tickets often become available the day before.

Eddi Reader, considered to be one of Scotland's all-time greatest female voices and performers, is returning to stages. Celebrating almost half a century of music, Eddi will bring her signature vocals to venues up and down the country. As Eddi Reader fans will know, no two performances are ever the same, but each concert promises to be a special evening with Eddi reminiscing and sharing the music of the past while looking forward to many more ahead.

Canadian rock band from Winnipeg recognised for the global success of 'Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm'.

Over the past three years, Priddy has quietly been building a growing following, captivating audiences around the UK with her haunting vocals, rich harmonies, distinctive finger picking guitar style and enchanting songs whose lyrics celebrate her life-long love affair with literature and poetry. She has been championed by BBC Radio 2 and BBC 6 Music and her debut EP 'Wolf' was chosen by Richard Thompson as his Best Thing I've Heard All Year in MOJO Magazine in 2018. With the buzz around her building, Priddy is making her mark in 2021 with the release of an eagerly-anticipated debut album on Navigator Records, The Eternal Rocks Beneath, which is set to bring her to even wider notice. The 10 self-penned tracks are delivered with a maturity and depth that belie the fact that this is her first full length release. At times tender, at times carrying a darker edge, the stories she weaves are transporting. Not surprising then that Nick Drake, John Martyn, Tunng and Scott Matthews are amongst her many influences. It has already received an amazing response from radio and press, including a 4 star review from The Observer, which described it as 'an accomplished set of original songs delivered in a breathtaking voice'. Meanwhile, Folk Radio declared it 'A debut of true substance, it's like searching for a simple shelter and stumbling upon a diamond mine'. The album was recorded over a 2-year period at Rebellious Jukebox studios, a little basement studio hidden beneath inner-city Birmingham and presided over by masterful producer Simon Weaver. The ensemble cast of musicians, including a sweeping string section, occasionally cut through by raw electric guitar and drums, as well as Richard March (Pop Will Eat Itself) on double bass and Mikey Kenny on fiddle, enhance Priddy's command of melody and lyricism and provide the perfect backdrop for the feelings of nostalgia and timelessness that underpin the record. Having already racked up some serious air play from the likes of Tom Robinson, Guy Garvey, Cerys Matthews, Radcliffe & Maconie, Gideon Coe, Steve Lamacq and Janice Long, as well as supported the likes of Richard Thompson & The Chieftains and playing well-earned spots at festivals and sell-out headline shows around the country, Priddy is a fast-rising star on the scene. The Eternal Rocks Beneath is poised to cement the place of this determined young woman in the folk world and beyond.

Sarah Jane Morris’ enviable career spans from early 80s, politically active bands The Republic, Happy End and the Communards through to her current international success as a singer/songwriter of undeniable stature.

Join Adam Buxton and his live band for an intimate evening celebrating the release of his debut album, Buckle Up, out now via Decca. Buxton, our most beloved podcaster, seasoned veteran of GarageBand and the jingle, enlisted Metronomy’s Joe Mount as producer and band leader … “I hoped it would be a Metronomy record with my voice” Buxton initially pondered, also hoping the outcome might sound like “Berlin-period Bowie and Eno going for lunch with Radiohead and Nina Simone at Brian Wilson’s beach brasserie.” Instead came fifteen songs that inhabit the space between heartfelt and silly, where Buxton has comfortably set up shop.

This concert is a journey through the musical universe of one of the most influential songwriters of our time.

Fairport Convention have been entertaining music lovers for over half a century, having formed in 1967. During that time, the band that launched British folk-rock has seen many changes, but one thing has remained the same – Fairport’s passion for performance.

Our precious concert in a 19th century church in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington. Experience the majestic music of the iconic saga «Lord of the Rings» films in a unique experience not to be missed. A delight for the whole family is guaranteed. Performed by the modern orchestra Mystery Ensemble, the virtuoso playing of the musicians will instantly transport you to a distant fantasy world with elves, hobbits and dwarves! Music loved by millions of people gives you goosebumps.

The Handsome Family, formed by husband and wife duo Brett and Rennie Sparks, bring their unique brand of alternative country music to the region. The Sparks’ music is steeped in the western gothic of New Mexico life. The unseen is powerful here. Nothing rusts, but entire oceans have disappeared. Ski masks mean robberies, but in the slow dive of the sun, enormous bugs awaken in thorny yards and unseen sirens and coyotes cry out to the purple sky. Just about anywhere you stand, there’s been some blood drawn. The Handsome Family continue to sell out venues worldwide that they couldn’t have filled before TV fame. Live, Brett (guitar/vocals) and Rennie (banjo/bass/vocals) are joined by drummer Jason Toth (worldwide) and multi-instrumentalist Alex MacMahon (USA). Their shows are full of humour and chit-chat. The Sparks’ aren’t afraid to reveal their ordinary humanness. The invisible couple is also very happy to be seen.