THE FIVE CHURCHES FESTIVAL
8-12 JULY 2026
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The Five Churches Festival returns for its fourth year!
The five churches of the Glaven Valley on the North Norfolk Coast - Blakeney, Cley, Glandford, Letheringsett and Wiveton - each with their own unique architecture, history and atmosphere, will once again host a varied and exciting programme of classical music.
Featuring musicians of international acclaim alongside established professionals from across Norfolk, the Festival will provide five days of exciting concerts with something for everyone. Chamber music, young musicians, a jazz café, music from Baroque to Britten, a family concert illustrated live, and a thrilling outdoor concert at Bayfield Hall.
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Full programme will be announced on Monday 30 March.
Friends priority booking 30 March to 5 April
General booking opens Monday 6 April.
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Why not become a Friend of the Festival to receive free tickets, attend the Festival opening reception, access priority booking, and be proud supporters of this feast of the arts in our beautiful area.
We look forward to seeing you in July!
MICHAEL CHANCE CBE
The Five Churches Festival is thrilled to announce that the celebrated countertenor Michael Chance, CBE has agreed to become its first Patron.
Michael Chance has a worldwide reputation as one of the main exponents of the male alto voice in all areas of the classical music repertoire. In his long and distinguished career he has performed in all the world’s greatest opera houses and concert halls from Sydney Opera House to Covent Garden, from Carnegie Hall to Wigmore Hall. His list of recordings is numerous and widespread and includes a Grammy award.
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‘North Norfolk was home to our family for many years, and so is dear to my heart. I take my hat off to anyone having the energy and courage to start up something new in the arts, especially along the river Glaven, and so when I was asked to come on board as Patron of the Five Churches Festival, which already in its short life seems buzzing with creative energy and widespread local appeal, it was an obvious yes. I am, of course, honoured, and look forward to hearing fabulous live music in wonderful buildings.’
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Since 2017, Michael has led the Grange Opera Festival in Hampshire as CEO and Artistic Director, from where he will retire this year. The Five Churches Festival is looking forward to a long and fruitful collaboration with Michael!
