by webmaster, 7th February 2023
There's no such thing as a free lunch, except at Shrewsbury's St Chad's church, where you can enjoy a series of concerts gratis
Proudly standing high above the River Severn, overlooking the historic Quarry Park, St Chad’s civic church is one of the most glorious landmarks in Shropshire’s county town. With it’s circular dimensions and domed tower, this much-loved local icon could even be likened to The Albert Hall, and some believe the acoustics are equally as impressive.
Fortunately for residents and visitors to Shrewsbury, music lovers don’t have to pay London prices to listen to the UK’s most talented musicians. In fact there's a series of 50 completely free Friday concerts held throughout the year at St Chad’s and all are welcome.
The free lunch-hour concert series is one of the biggest in the country, and it runs from the 3rd February until the 22nd December (with the exception of Good Friday on 7th April). Concerts begin at 12.30pm and last 40 minutes. There is even a light lunch served after each concert in the church hall and concert-goers can park from noon to 2pm free of charge at the church, space permitting.
Highlights include a fabulous flute quartet on 21st April, a harp recital by rising star Gina Taylor 9pictured) on 21st July, cello recitals by two great soloists Corinne Frost (30th June) and Ulrich Heinen (29th September), as well as vocal, piano, organ, violin and many other recitals, together with several chamber-music concerts.
“Our audience numbers have picked up after Covid, and many regard Friday at St Chad’s as the most enjoyable part of their week,” says concert director Richard Walker. “Both the organ and the piano at St Chad’s are among the best church instruments for miles around, and excellent performers are constantly asking us to give them a platform. Audiences come from all over the West Midlands to enjoy high-quality music-making by performers of all ages.”
For full listings, including programmes of forthcoming concerts, visit the church website at www.stchadschurchshrewsbury.com
