Popular Southend Concert Season set to return next month

Southend Concert Season returns with The Chamber Ensemble of London <i>(Image: Southend Council)</i>
Southend Concert Season returns with The Chamber Ensemble of London (Image: Southend Council)
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A concert series is set to return to Southend this autumn, promising another season of live music.

Southend Concert Season will run monthly from October 2025 to June 2026, bringing classical and choral performances to audiences at the Civic Centre and The Plaza Centre.

The series begins on Friday, October 10, 2025, with a performance by The Chamber Ensemble of London, directed by internationally acclaimed violinist Peter Fisher.

Matt Dent, councillor responsible for business, culture, music and tourism at Southend Council, said: "As the leaves turn and we welcome a new season, I’m thrilled to see the return of our Concert Series – a highlight in Southend’s cultural calendar.

"Last year’s performances brought our community together and showcased world-class talent right here in our city.

Member of The Chamber Ensemble of London (Image: Southend Council)

"We’re proud to open this year’s series with The Chamber Ensemble of London, setting the stage for another inspiring season of music.

"I encourage everyone to join us for what promises to be a truly memorable opening night and an exceptional programme ahead."

Founded in 1997, The Chamber Ensemble of London is made up of handpicked string players from London’s leading orchestras.

They have performed at prestigious venues including St Martin-in-the-Fields, St James’s Piccadilly, and the Royal Albert Hall, where The Times described them as "amongst a handful of the world’s finest musicians".

Their Southend programme will feature works by Purcell, Holst, Delius, Smetana, Ireland, and Mendelssohn.

The season continues in November with a performance by VOCES8, the internationally renowned vocal ensemble.

Their programme, Give Me Your Stars, will explore centuries of choral music.

Other highlights include early music specialists Stile Antico in February, performing Polyphonic Postcards, and the Aglica Trio in March, with a programme featuring Debussy, Ravel, and Gershwin.

In May, the Bute Wind Quintet will present A British Celebration, including pieces by Vaughan Williams, Sullivan, and Malcolm Arnold.

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