Four concerts, one celebration of young musical talent

This summer, hundreds of children and young people from schools across Central Bedfordshire took to the stage as part of Something for Summer 2026, Inspiring Music's annual celebration of music-making, creativity and achievement.

Across four concerts, held at The Grove Theatre in Dunstable on 29 and 30 June and The Shuttleworth Collection in Old Warden on 8 and 9 July, young performers delighted audiences with their enthusiasm, musicianship and confidence.

A celebration of young talent

The festival opened with two fantastic evenings at The Grove Theatre, featuring energetic massed choirs alongside a range of instrumental performances that showcased the breadth of musical opportunities available through Inspiring Music. Audiences enjoyed performances from the Eversholt Lower School recorder ensemble and JSax group, as well as a Harlington Lower School brass quartet, demonstrating the progress and commitment of young musicians who had worked together throughout the year.

The concerts continued at the beautiful surroundings of The Shuttleworth Collection, where children performed in a unique outdoor setting alongside a live band. Performances included a pBone ensemble from Laburnum Primary School and a mixed group of Djembe players from Shillington and Stondon Lower Schools and St Andrew's Primary School. The finale concerts provided a memorable conclusion to an exceptional programme of musical learning and performance.

Memorable experiences

Throughout the festival, children performed with confidence, enthusiasm and pride, supported by their families, friends and school communities. Whether singing as part of a massed choir or performing in smaller instrumental ensembles, each young musician had the opportunity to share their achievements with a live audience and experience the excitement of performing in professional and unique venues.

The response from families and schools was overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on the quality of the performances and the valuable experiences the concerts provided for children and young people.

Why music matters

Something for Summer is about far more than a performance. It provides children with opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork, resilience and a lifelong love of music. Watching young people perform together, celebrating their achievements and supporting one another, is a powerful reminder of the impact that music education can have on their lives.

From the first notes at The Grove Theatre to the final performances at Shuttleworth, Something for Summer 2026 was a wonderful celebration of the talent, dedication and enthusiasm of Central Bedfordshire's young musicians.