Founded in the spring of 2000 after a concert in Fingringhoe Church the previous Autumn (in aid of Helena Hospice), Roman River Music was established to provide an annual festival that would combine classical music concerts in beautiful and atmospheric venues with opportunities and activities for local children.
The name comes from the river that flows through the village into the nearby Colne.
Initially just a weekend of activities based in and around Fingringhoe, it quickly expanded into Colchester and nearby villages, growing in size and reputation.
Now running for a week or more each year (the largest chamber music festival in East Anglia), the festival highlights a range of genres, styles, and spaces – giving musicians an opportunity to perform programmes that they are passionate about, while shining a light on stunning venues and locations around coastal Essex.
Since 2022, Roman River Music has been produced by Wild Arts, a UK-wide music charity focused on bringing opera and chamber music to new locations and audiences.
In partnership with Wild Arts, Roman River Music has been able to bring music to more young people than ever before – working directly with 500 students across 10 Essex schools each summer, providing lesson plans for teachers, dynamic and engaging workshops, and a staged opera performance.
Meanwhile, our family shows and local community collaborations bring music to every church, village hall, and home, and our Young Artist Programme spans decades (from 6-16 year olds giving pop-up "Young Artist Spotlights" at the Roman River Festival and Spring Concerts every year, to 21-29 year olds performing key roles in Wild Arts' operas and leading solo recitals at Layer Marney Tower).
2025 is a celebration of an astonishing 25 years. But there's more to come.
From an extended outreach programme (working with care homes and local communities) to new music, new artists, and new collaborations, there's plenty in the pipeline for the next 25 years, and the next.
If you would like to join us on our journey, please consider becoming a Friend or giving a donation, or simply head to our What's On page and buy a ticket.
We hope to see you soon.