From Hollywood blockbusters and timeless romances to silent cinema and Bollywood, the silver screen provides the inspiration for the opening concerts of the new Swindon Recital Series season this September.
Under the theme Classic Film Music, the 2026–27 programme celebrates the enduring relationship between classical music and cinema, exploring the composers, performances and unforgettable melodies that have become as iconic as the films themselves.
The season opens on Sunday, 13 September, at 7.30pm at the Swindon Arts Centre with a special Red Carpet concert featuring acclaimed soprano Andrea Tweedale, accompanied by pianist Paul Turner.
Renowned for her rich, expressive voice and engaging stage presence, Andrea will perform Richard Strauss’s Four Last Songs alongside music featured in films including A Late Quartet, Call Me By Your Name, Driving Miss Daisy, A Room with a View and Diva. It promises to be a glamorous and atmospheric start to the new season, celebrating music that has brought some of cinema’s most memorable moments to life.
The celebrations continue on Wednesday, 23 September, at 1.05pm in the Wyvern Theatre with the return of clarinettist Chris Gibbons, once again joined by Paul Turner at the piano.
Their lunchtime recital explores a wonderfully varied programme featuring music from Amadeus, The Terminal, Cinema Paradiso and Ladies in Lavender, while also delving into the fascinating story of the first classical composer to write specifically for silent film.
The Swindon Recital Series has long been known for combining exceptional musicianship with imaginative programming, and this cinematic opening promises something for seasoned concertgoers, film lovers and anyone curious about the music behind some of the world’s most celebrated films.
Tickets for the Arts Centre concert are priced at £20.50 standard and £17.50 for seniors (both including the theatre levy). Students aged 15 to 18 pay £3.50, while accompanied children aged 14 and under are admitted free.
Tickets for the Wyvern Theatre lunchtime recital are £9.50, with student tickets available for £3.50 and free admission for accompanied children aged 14 and under. A transaction fee may apply to bookings.
With drama, romance, comedy and award-winning music all taking centre stage, Swindon Recital Series is inviting audiences to settle into their seats as another season of outstanding live music begins.
