Festival history

The Burton Bradstock Festival of Music and Art, which has been running for almost 40 years, was founded by the distinguished flautist, Mary Ryan, and her husband Ron Gilham, who owned a house in the village. They brought their friends, who numbered some of the UK’s finest musicians, down to Burton for a series of weekend concerts. These friendly gatherings have evolved into a fully-fledged festival, with the addition of the art exhibition nine years ago. The Burton Bradstock Festival of Music and Art takes places in mid-August, presenting an astonishing range of high quality events in just a few days, including orchestral concerts, evening and lunchtime recitals, jazz and World music, intimate late evening performances, and an art exhibition. Most of the concerts take place in Burton Bradstock’s exquisite 16th century church. The Festival’s Artistic Director is David Juritz, one of the world’s most celebrated violinists. David Juritz studied at the Royal College of Music where he won the college’s highest award, the Tagore medal. He was leader of the London Mozart players for 20 years and has appeared as a soloist in North and South America, the Far East, Europe, South Africa and Australia. His programming for the Festival combines inspired collaborations with an eclectic range of music to ensure there is truly something to surprise and delight everyone. For more information Email us