Banbury Early Music Festival will return this September with its biggest programme to date, featuring internationally acclaimed performers, workshops and talks across the town.

The Banbury Early Music Festival will return on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, with organisers promising the biggest programme in the event's history.

To help fund the festival, organisers have launched an online Crowdfunder campaign. Money raised will help cover the cost of bringing internationally renowned performers to Banbury while keeping ticket prices affordable and offering a range of free activities throughout the weekend.

Festival co-director Dylan McCaig said: “We're delighted to announce this year's programme, which is our most ambitious yet. From internationally acclaimed ensembles to hands-on workshops and family-friendly events, the festival celebrates the richness and diversity of early music while welcoming people of all ages and musical backgrounds.

Banbury Early Music Festival will return this September with its biggest programme to date.

placeholder image — Banbury Early Music Festival will return this September with its biggest programme to date.

“The support we've received from the local community over the past three years has been incredible. Our Crowdfunder gives everyone the opportunity to play a part in making this year's festival another success, helping us continue to bring world-class music and educational opportunities to Banbury.”

Events will take place at four venues across the town centre – St Mary's Church, Marlborough Road Methodist Church, Whately Hall Hotel and Cromwell Lodge – all within easy walking distance of one another.

This year's line-up features acclaimed artists including The Gonzaga Band, The Linarol Consort, The Little Song Party, Ensemble Augelletti, Blondel and Lynda Sayce.

Visitors can also enjoy a packed programme of talks, workshops, free performers' platforms and the popular Makers' Marketplace, showcasing specialist instrument makers and craftspeople.

Since it was founded in 2023, the Banbury Early Music Festival has established itself as one of the region's leading specialist music events, attracting hundreds of visitors and internationally recognised performers to the town each year.

Organised by local early music specialists Heidi Fardell, Dylan McCaig and Alison Kinder, the festival has also become a significant addition to Banbury's cultural calendar.

For more information about this year’s event, including the full lineup of performers or how to purchase tickets, visit: https://banburyearlymusicfestival.weebly.com/concerts--schedule

For more information about the Crowdfunder, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/banbury-early-music-festival-2026?