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A Magazine for Sheffield

Classical Sheffield “We are a city of music-makers. Come join us and be merry!”

Classical Sheffield brings festive music to the masses throughout December with more than 30 events for all ages.

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As the festive season gets into full swing, Classical Sheffield brings a wealth of Christmas concerts and activities to the city and its surrounding areas.

With more than 30 events, many of which are free entry, the programme features concerts from Sheffield University Concert Series, The Snowman with live orchestra and Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra.

Jo Towler, Chair of Classical Sheffield, thinks this December will show just how musical the city is: "The number and range of live musical events happening in this city during December is absolutely fantastic, and I think there is something for everyone to enjoy.

"We are a city of music-makers, and this is reflected in the number of performances over the next few weeks as we get into the festive spirit. Come join us and be merry!"

Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra, the city’s flagship amateur orchestra since 1945, is hosting Christmas concerts suitable for all ages, engaging the little ones with egg shakers, bubble machines and dancing, and giving older kids the chance to conduct the orchestra.

Chair of Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra, Nicola Elam, said: “Everyone is welcome at our Christmas concerts, whether you're 3 or 103! This year's theme is community, so we are joining forces with the talented young people of the Sheffield Youth Orchestra.”

As well as providing entertainment for audiences, Classical Sheffield’s programme is a welcome opportunity for hundreds of music-makers to get together and perform after weeks of rehearsals.

Marjorie Mortimer of First Position Strings, who meet regularly, said: “Having spent most of my life listening to others involved in classical music, I started to have cello lessons in my early eighties.

"That alone was a fantastic experience, now I have an even greater challenge to be part of a string orchestra. This adds a whole new dimension to my life. My brain and physical coordination are stretched beyond belief but it is so rewarding to play an active role alongside others.”

The festive programme runs until Tuesday 20 December. You can find tickets and more information online. And don’t forget to save the dates for Classical Sheffield’s Classical Weekend – 15 to 17 March 2023.

by Felicity Jackson (she/her)

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