Liberation International Music Festival celebrates largest line up yet

The sixteenth Liberation International Music Festival marks the largest event organised by the charity Music in Action.

The 2024 Liberation International Music Festival will run from 9 May to 18 May comprising 36 unique events, musical experiences and workshops, welcoming a diverse range of world-class musicians from around the globe to perform alongside local homegrown talent.  The 14 international stars join over 65 performers lighting up the stages using seven unique heritage venues including Hamptonne, Seafield House and St Brelade’s Church.  Alongside the public events open to 2000 festival attendees will be 28 educational masterclasses and schools workshops with over 1500 children benefiting from the festival.

With a theme of mirrors and reflection, the 2024 Jersey Festival offers a feast of music offering emotions of sorrow to joy through music. Celebrating 80 years since the Liberation of Jersey following WW2, the festival reflects on the contrast between the D-Day Landing and life on the island during the Occupation.

From Grammy winning jazz artists, internationally renowned classical stars, opera stars, theatre with music and words capturing the dramatic story of artist Claude Cahun, to talented young artists, islanders and visitors are invited to enjoy captivating music in immersive and intimate locations across Jersey.  A showcase of the island’s rich cultural heritage gives an opportunity to experience the best of music, culture, and history in unique venues and outdoor locations across the island.

Youth and educational work will anchor the Liberation International Music Festival alongside the performances by international stars.  In line with the charity’s vision of inspiring the next generation, Jersey children and students will be at the centre of the Festival.

This year’s event highlights include:

International Soloist with Orchestra: Jean-Efflam Bavouzet and Andrea Nemecz, Jersey Chamber Orchestra, St. Helier Methodist, 11 May, 19.30-21.30

The multi-award winning pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet will perform in a concert including a Double Piano Concerto by Mozart and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra will play Haydn’s Symphony No 47, one of his celebrated masterpieces. The mirrors theme is followed by the third movement being a palindrome – it’s the same from front to back and back to front – a remarkable feat.  And the concert also features a leading work by Sussmayr – the Mirror of Arkadius.

Leading Soloists play chamber music: Liberation Chamber Gala, Jersey Museum, 14 May, 19.30-21.30

Acclaimed international soloist So-Ock Kim and friends play an evening of piano and strings at the stunning entrance to the Jersey Museum. Join these leading artists to see early and more recent pieces for piano and strings from Mozart to Fauré.  There’s an option to enjoy a pre-theatre dinner at The Yard.

Celebrity song recital: Sir Willard White, Jersey Arts Centre, 16 May, 19.30

Experience the sublime artistry of singing legend and Grammy award winner Sir Willard White and pianist Anna Tilbrook as they weave a captivating tapestry of song. From Schubert to Bernstein, with songs from the shows such as Ol Man River and modern classics, enjoy a remarkable programme.

Something different: Musical Walk, Seafield House, Glass Church, 9 May, 14.30-16.30

Led by historian Ian Ronayne embark on a captivating musical journey through the scenic grounds of historic Seafield House, previously the home of an Austrian princess.  Serenaded by international violin soloist Harriet Mackenzie and friends including cellist Urska Horvat.  The stunning music includes music by Joplin, Casals and the famous Piazolla tango – Libertango

Homegrown talent: Ruben Maric, Hamptonne, 18 May 2024, 12.30-15.00

Jazz at Hamptonne returns hosted by Jersey Heritage after a seven year break. Picnic on the lawns or enjoy seats in the new Great Hall at Hamptonne featuring internationally renowned jazz stars Jason Rebello, Tim Garland and homegrown talent Ruben Maric whose band performed at Glastonbury – performing with Katy Hall and Plantfood.

James Mews, Chairman of Music in Action, commented: “Music in Action are proud to present a unique line up of incredible productions at the 2024 Liberation International Music Festival, representing our largest year of programming to date.  The theme of mirrors and reflection is particularly pertinent as we mark 80 years since the D-Day landings. With masterpieces, rarely performed treasures and a myriad of genres, there is something for everyone.”

The Liberation International Music Festival is grateful for the continued support of The Bailiff’s Chambers, The Roy Overland Charitable Trust and private donors who make this event possible.

The 2023 Liberation International Music Festival promises to be a spectacular celebration of music, culture, and history, and a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and warmth of Jersey’s people and landscapes.

Advanced booking is recommended for all of the Festival events and tickets can be purchased through the website musicjersey.com or from Eventbrite online.