This festive season, Bristol Beacon is set to illuminate the city's cultural landscape with a series of unforgettable performances, showcasing a diverse array of global talent and local stars. From the vibrant rhythms of Cuban jazz to the punk rock nostalgia of The Damned, there's something for every music lover. Experience the magic of live performances from the Junior Ensembles, the entrancing beats of Confidence Man, the classical elegance of the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the soulful tributes to Nina Simone by Lady Nade. Each event promises to captivate and inspire, leaving audiences with memories to cherish.

A December to Remember: Bristol Beacon's Spectacular Showcase of Talent and Tunes

Bristol Beacon is set to be a hive of musical brilliance in February 2025, hosting an eclectic mix of genres and artists that promise an unforgettable experience. From Sam Greenfield's fusion of jazz and funk to the soulful acoustic sounds of Spiers & Boden, the classical grandeur of the Prague Symphony Orchestra, and the emotionally charged melodies of Anna B Savage, there's something for every music lover. These events not only showcase individual talent but also highlight the power of music to connect diverse audiences, offering a vibrant cultural tapestry that reflects the dynamic spirit of Bristol.

Bristol Beacon's Vibrant Musical Mosaic: A 2025 Highlight

Bristol Beacon is set to be the epicenter of musical brilliance in early 2025, hosting an eclectic range of performances from classical symphonies by the London and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestras to contemporary acts like Max Cooper and Nubiyan Twist. Each event promises to highlight exceptional artists and their unique contributions to the world of music, providing audiences with an unforgettable experience of sound, emotion, and cultural richness.

A Symphony of Talent: Bristol Beacon's Diverse Musical Showcase

As the Bristol Beacon gears up for an upcoming season filled with an array of musical experiences, audiences are in for a treat. From the evocative symphonies of the London Symphony Orchestra to the genre-defying tunes of Primal Scream, March and April 2025 will be a celebration of sound. With performances from celebrated artists like Marcin, and diverse bands such as Skunk Anansie and The Delines, the events promise to bring the city alive with music that spans cultures and genres.

Bristol Beacon's Musical Extravaganza: A Symphony of Diverse Sounds

Step into a world of diverse musical experiences at the Bristol Beacon, where a series of evocative performances take the stage. From the grandeur of the London Symphony Orchestra performing Mahler's First Symphony to the genre-defying sounds of Spiritualized and Primal Scream, the calendar is packed with events that promise to captivate music lovers. Artists like violinist Nicola Benedetti, the introspective Lambert, and the timeless folk band The Fureys ensure that each performance is unique. Whether you're a fan of orchestral symphonies or modern rock, the Bristol Beacon's lineup offers something for everyone.

Bristol Beacon's Musical Odyssey: Symphony, Rock, and Folk Converge

Bristol Beacon is set to become a symphony of diverse musical expressions this May and June, with an array of performances that promise to captivate audiences. From the ambient grooves of Kruder & Dorfmeister to the intergalactic scores of John Williams by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, the melodic spectrum is vast. Add to this the alternative rock vibes of The Flaming Lips, the visual escapism of Steven Wilson, and the bluesy nostalgia of Jerron Paxton, and you've got a lineup that caters to every musical taste—rounded off with iconic performances from The Waterboys, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, and Billy Ocean.

Bristol Beacon's Musical Magic: A Prelude to Unforgettable Performances

From the iconic Sophie Ellis-Bextor to the legendary Billy Ocean, Bristol Beacon's 2025 lineup promises a vibrant mix of musical journeys across varied genres. This year, audiences will also witness the enchanting John Wilson & Sinfonia of London and enjoy the profound storytelling of Larkin Poe. As these artists take the stage, they bring with them distinctive styles that range from disco-pop to contemporary blues, making Bristol Beacon a haven for music lovers.

Bristol Beacon's Spectacular Lineup: A Musical Extravaganza for 2025

Bristol Beacon is set to host an exhilarating lineup of events, offering something extraordinary for every music and art enthusiast. From the timeless melodies of Rodgers & Hammerstein, brought to life by John Wilson & Sinfonia of London, to the classic rock essence of Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, each event promises a unique experience. Add to the mix the witty social commentary of Fran Lebowitz, and the musical mastery of legends like Level 42 and Al Stewart, and you have a cultural calendar not to be missed. Prepare for unforgettable nights of music, laughter, and nostalgia.

A Symphony of Sound and Story: Unforgettable Performances at Bristol Beacon

Following their Grammy-winning success with Blood Harmony in 2024, the duo has ventured deeper into their musical journey with a collection of songs that resonate with introspection, authenticity, and a profound connection to their roots in American music. Already hailed for the sincerity of their songcraft, the Lovell sisters now place an even greater spotlight on their gift for storytelling, delving deep into personal narratives with universal themes of self-acceptance and individuality against a backdrop of contemporary blues and rock influences.

EPSG:4326

Larkin Poe

Bristol Beacon

Over the years, Al has performed sold-out performances across the United States and United Kingdom. On his current tour, he continues to perform fan favorites like ‘Year of the Cat‘, ‘Time Passages‘, ‘On the Border‘ and ‘Modern Times‘ along with deeper cuts from his extensive catalog. Having released nearly 20 albums, Stewart has collaborated with notable musicians such as Jimmy Page, Phil Collins, and Richard Thompson.

Al Stewart

The group are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their breakthrough album World Machine with a UK tour.  World Machine propelled them into international stardom, achieving double platinum status and solidifying their place in music history.

Level 42

An American original and purveyor of urban cool, the cultural satirist and author is pointed, forthright, unapologetically opinionated, and known for her hilariously dry social commentary on American life. Lebowitz’s Netflix documentary series directed by Martin Scorsese, Pretend It’s A City, was a hit with Lebowitz’s lively and unapologetic commentary on what it means to live there.

An Evening with Fran Lebowitz

Channeling the spirit of Fleetwood Mac at their very best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac offers a unique opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 2025

Prepare to be enchanted as John Wilson and Sinfonia of London bring the timeless music of Rodgers & Hammerstein to life in a spectacular concert featuring beloved songs from some of the greatest musicals of all time including South Pacific, The Sound Of Music, Oklahoma!,  Carousel and The King and I.

John Wilson & Sinfonia of London

Known for smash hits like ‘Caribbean Queen‘, ‘When the Going Gets Tough’, and ‘Get Outta My Dreams’ Billy Ocean earned a Grammy for Best Male R&B Performance in the 80s. After some years out of the spotlight, his reputation flourished again in the 21st century with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the MOBOs, a return to the upper reaches of the charts and an MBE.

Billy Ocean

Her most recent album, ‘My Light, My Destroyer‘, is an expansive sonic journey. Blending indie rock, new age, sophistipop, and jazz, Jenkins explores themes of curiosity and duality, weaving poetic lyricism with field recordings. The album reflects a newfound energy after her 2021 breakout ‘An Overview on Phenomenal Nature‘, which she initially thought would be her final release.

Cassandra Jenkins

Over the years, Sophie has released multiple critically acclaimed albums, captivating audiences with her distinctive voice. Her new single ‘Freedom of the Night’ sees Sophie enter a new era with a confident return to her iconic and esteemed disco-pop sound.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor

Indisputably one of the best live bands in the world, the 2024 version of The Waterboys features double keyboard players Brother Paul from Memphis and James Hallawell from Cornwall, and is grounded by killer Irish rhythm section Aongus Ralston (bass) and Eamon Ferris (drums). The group reconfigure music from all stages of the band’s career, from the early “big music” and roots-inspired ‘Fisherman’s Blues‘ era, to the run of genre-fluid records that have poured out since 2015’s swaggering ‘Modern Blues‘.

The Waterboys

Bizet’s dazzling orchestral suite from his great opera Carmen opens the second half, followed by a suite from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, the music of which has been tantalising audiences since it was composed in 1876. Next, a chance to hear music from another Argentinian composer, Ginastera – his Estancia Suite. The concert ends with a real treat and probably the most famous piece written by Argentina’s greatest composer Astor Piazzolla: his ever-popular Libertango.

Buenos Aires Symphony Orchestra of Colón Opera

Wilson’s anticipated eighth solo album ‘The Overview‘ and upcoming tour will transport you to space with live audio visual escapism. You’ll also get the chance to hear tracks from his enchanting album ‘The Harmony Codex‘ played live for the first time.

Steven Wilson

A songwriter, inheritor of tradition, and a walking, talking jukebox, Paxton approaches his craft with equal part wit and reverence, with a knack for leg-pulling and cracking wise. Things Done Changed is an album of original songs that sound beamed in from nearly a century ago, when jazz and blues were performed as a means of both personal and cultural survival.

Jerron Paxton

Formed in Oklahoma City in 1983, The Flaming Lips have since become one of the most iconic, influential, unpredictable, and vital forces in American alternative rock music. ‘Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots‘ gave the band their first RIAA certified Gold Record. As the eagerly awaited follow-up to 1999’s masterwork, ‘The Soft Bulletin‘, Yoshimi proved that singer/guitarist Wayne Coyne, and multi-instrumentalist Steven Drozd had yet another masterpiece in them.

The Flaming Lips

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra presents a magnificent celebration of John Williams’ timeless music from the entire intergalactic film saga, with music spanning all three film trilogies, from Episode IV: A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back and The Phantom Menace to The Revenge of the Sith and The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker.

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

This timeless release, with its seamless blend of downtempo beats and ambient grooves, became a staple for afterparties, Sunday afternoons, and laid-back gatherings, selling over a million copies worldwide. The record includes K&D’s legendary 11-minute remix of Madonna’s ‘Nothing Really Matters’ plus their reimaginations of Roni Size’s ‘Heroes’ and U.F.O’s ‘L.O.V.E’ Additional gems include alternate remixes of Lewis Taylor’s “Lucky” and Count Basic’s “Speechless,” all integral to K&D’s live sets.

Kruder & Dorfmeister

Expect a mix of soaring melodies and introspective lyrics that invite fans to reflect, connect, and celebrate one of the UK’s most enduring bands.

Manic Street Preachers

Ten years and two billion views on their YouTube channel later, a Postmodern Jukebox show has become something of an annual musical tradition for hundreds of thousands of dedicated fans all over the world. The rare concert act that appeals across generations. Dress vintage for the full effect!

Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox

Over the last few years, FINNEAS has quietly emerged as an unassumingly ubiquitous presence in popular music and culture. Experience his emotive hits and distinctive sound live, along with tracks from his self-produced second album, For Cryin’ Out Loud! 

Finneas

Formed as a Genesis side project in 1985, Mike and The Mechanics soared to commercial heights with Paul Young and Paul Carrack. Despite challenges, the band persevered, reuniting in 2011 with new members Roachford and Howar, they released ,’The Road’, album, reigniting their sound with resounding success. Join them for an unforgettable night of nostalgia and celebration as they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Mike and The Mechanics

OCS remain one of the most successful-and most loved-bands of the modern era. Having spent six years fine-tuning their sound, they lit up the Britpop party, chalking up three Top 5 albums – ‘Moseley Shoals‘, ‘Marchin’ Already‘ and ‘One From The Modern‘ and a run of nine successive Top 20 single’s including the immortal ‘The Riverboat Song‘.

Ocean Colour Scene

Ólafsson’s recordings for Deutsche Grammophon have captured the public and critical imagination. Now one of the most sought-after artists of today, Ólafsson’s multiple awards include Opus Klassik Instrumentalist of the Year (2023), Opus Klassik Solo Recording Instrumental (twice), CoScan’s International Nordic Person of the Year (2023) and the Rolf Schock Prize for Music (2022).

Víkingur Ólafsson

What garnered Heather her loyal following is her live performances; Known for a voice that is both incredibly powerful and angelic, she plays major rock festivals with full band as impressively as she captivates audiences in intimate theatres with just a cellist as accompaniment. Heather believes there is a magic that happens when she’s performing – she allows the music to flow through her body.

Heather Nova

Formerly releasing music as Years & Years, Olly earned two #1 UK albums and countless chart topping singles. He received a BAFTA nomination for It’s A Sin, which reshaped conversations on HIV/AIDS and queer life, he proudly represented the UK at Eurovision in 2024 and worked alongside icons like Elton John and Kylie.

Olly Alexander

Based in Bristol, Twin City launched in 2021 and their first single ‘Shake The Walls’ gained instant traction receiving over 10,000 views on YouTube in it’s first week of release with airplay on multiple popular radio stations. With a string of sold out shows, festival appearances, and high profile support slots, including shows with The View, Twin Atlantic, The Royston Club, The K’s, The Coral, Bilk, The Lightning Seeds, Sea Power and many more, Twin City are definitely a band worth keeping on your radar.

Twin City

Known for their cinematic sound, the band features Vlautin’s songwriting, Cory Gray’s arrangements, and a dynamic rhythm section. The Delines first gained attention with their 2014 debut ‘Colfax‘, which earned spots on multiple year-end top ten lists. Their third album, ‘The Sea Drift‘, was named Album of the Year by BBC Radio 6‘s Gideon Coe.

The Delines

Known for tackling social and political themes, the band captivated audiences worldwide with hits like “Weak” and “Hedonism“. After over 30 years, Skunk Anansie remains a powerful force in music, influencing generations with their genre-defying sound and electrifying live performances.

Skunk Anansie

They are one of Ireland’s all-time most acclaimed and influential folk and traditional bands. Fureys classics like, ‘I Will Love You’, ‘When You Were Sweet 16’, ‘The Old Man’, ‘From Clare to Here’ and ‘The Green Fields of France’ have become the soundtrack to the lives of fans all over the world.

The Fureys

Tracing its roots to poor, rural towns where it was difficult to find communities to call their own, the feeling of loss and solitary longing has also, paradoxically, cemented their powerfully close connection.

Thus Love

Bristol Shopping Quarter

Known for their groundbreaking fusion of rock, electronica, and psychedelia, Primal Scream’s music — from the era-defining Screamadelica to their latest work — transcends genres.

Primal Scream

His latest record, Actually Good, was originally intended as the score for a TV series called The Stranger which he abandoned due to massive artistic differences with its director. As Lambert himself puts it: “The Stranger might be sh*t, but the music is Actually Good.”

Lambert

The album creates a mesmerizing, out-of-control sonic experience unlike anything else. Incorporating everything from gospel to minimalist rock, it’s unique sound is achieved by blending two separate mixes into one, forming a phase-shifting effect that was both challenging and accidental.

Spiritualized

More of a suite than a concerto, Václav Trojan’s Fairy Tales is full of appealing and catchy melodies. The seven short movements each describe a fairy-tale character, such as the sleeping princess, the charming prince and the evil dragon.

Recognized by major publications such as Rolling Stone and Billboard, he has become one of the leading young guitarists in the world. Marcin’s impressive career includes winning major European talent shows and reaching the semifinals of America’s Got Talent. He has headlined sold-out tours across multiple continents, playing prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall.

Marcin

None more so than Taylor Swift who sparked yet another internet meltdown by singing along with the band’s eternal mega-hit ‘I Believe In A Thing Called Love’ at the US Open. As a result her legions of fans sent the track hurtling up charts across the world, including reaching Number 1 in the US iTunes Rock Chart, 21 years after its release.

The Darkness

Breaking down the barriers between musician and audience with his self-deprecating charm, Beans on Toast is a prolific artist, having played everywhere from pubs to festivals such as Glastonbury, where he’s performed every year since 2007.

Beans on Toast

Since their formation in 2003, Wardruna have captivated audiences with a broad selection of both traditional and historical Nordic instruments, non-traditional instruments and other sources of sound such as trees, stones, bones, water and fire are used to enhance the nature of the theme being ‘portrayed’ in each case.

Wardruna

The four-piece acoustic set flawlessly execute banjo rolls and lightning-fast mandolin tremolos, 3-part harmonies and songs of classic themes-murder ballads, disloyalty, ghosts and the like.

The Dead South

Kim has maintained her reputation as a formidable live performer, embarking on the ‘Closer Tour’ with her band next year. Expect to hear – You Came, You Keep Me Hangin’ On, Never Trust a Stranger, Stone, Chequered Love and of course, Kids In America! 

Kim Wilde

Since forming in 2011, Nubiyan Twist have risen to become one of the leading groups in the UK’s ever-evolving jazz and soul scene. Their latest album ‘Find Your Flame’ was nominated for Best Independent Album at the 2024 AIM Awards and has continued the band’s journey as one of the leading lights in their scene with new frontwoman and Aziza Jaye and further playlisted singles ‘So Mi Stay’ and ‘Lights Out’ featuring Chic legend Nile Rodgers.

Nubiyan Twist

Trinity Community Arts

Known for timeless tracks like ‘Rally Round the Flag‘, ‘Roller Skates‘, and ‘Stepping Out‘ and founded by David ‘Dread’ Hinds and Selwyn Brown in 1975, the band grew from Birmingham’s vibrant music scene, gaining global recognition with a unique blend of reggae, punk, and rock.

Steel Pulse

In 2024, Alan Sparhawk embarks on a new chapter of his 30-year career with the release of his first solo album, ‘White Roses, My God‘. After the passing of his wife and bandmate Mimi Parker in 2022, Sparhawk’s solo debut emerges not only from grief but as a bold exploration of sound and emotion. The album blends experimental beats with profound, evocative lyrics offering a cathartic experience.

Alan Sparhawk

Since his neo-psychedelic Green On Red days in the 80s, Chuck Prophet has captivated audiences across the globe for forty years. Chuck’s last tour in 2023 saw packed venues everywhere, marking his triumphant return after battling cancer. Now, he’s back with a new album inspired by South American Cumbia music, set to release this October.

Chuck Prophet

Now performing as Johnny Blue Skies he’s making a return to the UK for his first tour since 2020. The tour follows the release of ‘Passage Du Desir‘, his latest album recorded at Abbey Road Studios.

Sturgill Simpson

He holds a PhD in computational biology at the same time as being the first contemporary electronic musician to perform at the ancient Acropolis theatre in Athens. Synonymous with the evolution of club culture, Cooper honed his craft as a DJ with a 10-year residency at the legendary Firefly.

Max Cooper

Alongside many accolades and collaborations with artists like Bon Iver, Regan’s artistry is rich with emotional resonance. His latest single, Islands, written under the Mallorcan sun, is a lush, cosmic exploration that ripples with the immediacy and beauty of the sea, setting the stage for his upcoming album.

Fionn Regan

Her journey, marked by triumphs and trials, reflects her relentless dedication to her craft and fans. Hart’s music, infused with her raw, soulful energy, has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her performances at iconic venues and top spots on the charts.

Beth Hart

Zaho has returned with an expanded edition of La Symphonie des éclairs, featuring seven new tracks that showcase her raw, electrifying energy and distinctive voice. A 2024 marked by sold-out arenas, iconic covers at the Cannes Film Festival and Paris Olympics, and record-breaking awards have cemented her place as a rising star in French Chanson. Known for a voice both familiar and uniquely powerful, Zaho’s work weaves French lyricism with hypnotic electro beats.

Zaho de Sagazan

From the beginning, Brahms’ Third Symphony has proven to be his most evocative – a compelling piece rich with references to his own thoughts about life and love in its striking mixture of passion and pessimism, of restlessness and serenity. With numerous acknowledgments to Wagner and allusions to the same Rhine-based mythology, it provides other fascinations as well.

The voice of progressive rock icon FISH has been a defining sound of the genre since the emergence of Marillion in 1979 where the acclaimed artist started is impressive career. Now, after 35 years as a solo artist, Derek William Dick (aka FISH) embarks on a farewell tour across Europe entitled ‘Road To The Isles’.

FISH Farewell Tour

Over a decade, Wirral-born Louisa Roach has built She Drew The Gun into a project that fully lives up to its name. Exploring a  visceral musical world ranging 80’s electronica, hip-hop, political poetry, and cosmic scouse psychedelia with lyrics that take aim at the wild injustices she was persistently seeing in the world.

She Drew The Gun

Opeth consistently defies expectations and their upcoming 14th studio album, ‘The last WILL and TESTAMENT‘ is no outlier. The new record is full of haunting melodrama, shocking revelations, and some of the wildest music Mikael Åkerfeldt has ever written.

Opeth

Having evolved their sound with each album, from the raw energy of Young Chasers to the introspective depth of 2023’s ‘Never Going Under’, the band continues to explore new sonic territory. Expect a set packed with singalong hits and fresh tracks that reflect on personal growth and global concerns. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of the UK’s most exciting live acts.

Circa Waves

He has released six solo albums and co-founded the band A Winged Victory for the Sullen. His career began with the dreampop band Dēvics before he gained recognition with ‘Piano Solos‘, which led to his breakthrough as a film composer for Sofia Coppola’s ‘Marie Antoinette‘.

Dustin O'Halloran

Over 2,000 people will descend upon what is promising to be the greatest show Dutty Moonshine Big Band have ever produced. The band has leaked whispers of a big surprise…something they’ve been looking to do for a few years now…. February 2025 is the exact time to unleash this grand plan.

Dutty Moonshine Big Band

Known for classic hits like ‘Easy Livin’‘ and ‘The Wizard‘, Uriah Heep are set to embark on their final world tour, The Magician’s Farewell, marking 55 years of rock history.

Uriah Heep

All three musicians have won global acclaim: John Doyle (Dublin – vocals, guitar, bouzouki, mandola) is an Irish music linchpin and a founder member of acclaimed group Solas. BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Winner John McCusker (Glasgow – fiddle, whistles, harmonium). Mike McGoldrick (Manchester – flute, whistles, Uileann pipes, bodhran, clarinet, congas) is a BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner, founding member of Lúnasa.

Michael McGoldrick, John McCusker and John Doyle

In 2025, You Me At Six will embark on a farewell world tour and say goodbye to fans after a long and successful career. It takes a special kind of band to be able to write instantaneously catchy, hook-driven pop-rock songs whose appeal cuts across generations, continents and gender.

You Me At Six

You might have seen him on Scared of the Dark, Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, The Royal Variety, QI, Blankety Blank, The Last Leg, and tons more. With a brand-new show for 2025, Chris is hitting the road again with another masterclass in stand-up comedy that has literally been yonks in the making.

Chris McCausland

In Mahler’s First Symphony, the earth wakens to sounds of nature and nostalgic folk songs in the first movement. The middle movement is charm itself, while the finale is a funeral march to the tune of ‘Frère Jacques’. Not for nothing was it nicknamed ‘Titan’.

London Symphony Orchestra

Anna B Savage’s third album, You and i are Earth, is a delicate exploration of healing, curiosity, and connection to both people and places. Following her critically acclaimed works, A Common Turn and in|FLUX, this record brings an intimate yet expansive feel, with themes rooted in Ireland, her new home.

Anna B Savage

In 2004, Snaith changed his performance name from Manitoba to Caribou and his previous full-length albums were re-released under the new moniker. The album ‘Our Love’ was Snaith’s most commercially successful album to date – peaking at number 8 on the UK album charts and 46 in the US Top 200 Billboard Album Charts.

Caribou

The sparks of that night became what is now ‘The John Martyn Project’, in which each member of the collective brings their own story and relationship to John’s music, keeping the spirit of his music alive whilst collecting stories and insights from the crowds they play to.

The John Martyn Project

In their performance tonight, the Orchestra justifiably celebrates Dvořák – arguably their nation’s greatest composer – opening their concert with the dramatic and entertaining symphonic poem Noonday Witch, rooted in Slavic mythology.

Prague Symphony Orchestra

This tour features Scotland’s whistle ace Ross Ainslie up front with Irish piper John McSherry, while bass supremo Joe Dart (Vulfpeck, Fearless Flyers), Detroit drummer Michael Shimmin and keyboard player Joe Hettinga all return, joining Limerick guitarist Seán O’Meara. This show comes on the heels of the band’s recent collaboration with Grammy-winning electronic artist Zedd on his latest album Telos.

the olllam

After a seven year hiatus to concentrate on their Universal Records-signed big band Bellowhead, Spiers & Boden returned in 2021 with the critically acclaimed album ‘Fallow Ground‘ and have been taking their brand of high octane, no nonsense acoustic folk song and music to packed UK venues ever since.

Spiers and Boden

Sam made waves with his latest release ‘Sam Greenfield Rules‘ blending the sophistication of jazz with the lively spirit of pop and funk to create a sound that is uniquely his own. He’s no stranger to the recording studio either, having worked with the likes of Ed Sheeran, Mariah Carey and Queen Latifah.

Sam Greenfield

B O D I E S concerts are touching, adventurous and above all transcendent. Featuring eight exceptional voices and no instruments, the band delivers a performance about what it means to be made of matter. Musically spanning indie and neo-classical with a strong ear for melody, it’s no exaggeration to state they have a sound all their own.

B O D I E S

Her last album, ‘A Dark Murmuration of Words’ is lyrically probing, by turns both dark and optimistic, Barker searches for meaning through the deafening clamour of fake news and algorithmically filtered conversation, delivering an exploration of the grand themes of our age.

Emily Barker

This competition, organised by local Rotary Clubs, is open to both instrumentalists and singers aged 13-18 of at least Grade 7 standard. The six finalists will have been selected at competition heats in November 2024. Each performer will present a 15-minute programme of predominantly classical music.

The Rotary Young Musician Competition

Thile is a founding member of the highly influential bluegrass string bands Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek, while his collaborators range from Jacob Collier and Brad Mehldau to Yo-Yo Ma. The delicate intricacy of his playing gives the listener “one joyous arc, with the linear melody and vertical harmony blurring into a single web of gossamer beauty.” (New York Times)

Chris Thile & Special Guest with Britten Sinfonia

Despite some initial criticism that it was unplayable, Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto lost little time in establishing itself as a concert favourite. One of the more demanding works for the violin virtuoso, it is more remarkable still for its unwavering melodic inspiration and passionate expression of human feeling. Tchaikovsky speaks to us from the heart, using the voice of the solo violin as his medium.

Following the huge success of The Gruffalo and the The Gruffalo’s Child at Bristol Beacon last Christmas, they make a welcome return this December. Rather like Peter and the Wolf, each character in the tale is represented by a different instrument of the orchestra – can you guess what the Gruffalo will be?

The Snowman

With special guest soprano Pumeza Matshikiza and accompanied by the acclaimed Welsh National Opera Orchestra, expect magical seasonal music, beloved Christmas carols and traditional Welsh songs.

Bryn's Christmas

When December draws near, The Unthanks will release and tour, ‘In Winter’ – a double-album, gatefold, dream-like winter fantasia, embracing both the dark and the light in the most ritualistic of seasons. Moving in and out of focus – like a memory – a bittersweet hymnal to our shared winter experience. Echoes of winter tunes known throughout the western world, mix with the traditional and the newly written, all passed with great care and love through The Unthanks filter.

The Unthanks in Winter

With fastidious attention to detail, the band manage spectacularly to recreate the sound and look of the Fab Four through each iconic phase of their illustrious career, with what can only be described as uncanny authenticity.

The Bootleg Beatles in Concert

It would be 1999’s ‘The Man Who’ that truly cemented Travis’ musical legacy. Comprising vocalist Fran Healy, bassist Dougie Payne, lead guitarist Andy Dunlop and drummer Neil Primrose, the band offered a darker sound through tracks such as ‘Why Does It Always Rain On Me?‘, ‘Driftwood‘, and ‘Turn‘. ‘The Invisible Band’ followed in 2001, it debuted at No.1 and its single ‘Sing‘ became the most played song across UK airwaves that summer.

Travis

Enjoy a lineup of Christmas all-time favorites, including Bob Chilcott’s Wenceslas and Cecilia McDowall’s Christus Natus Est, along with some exciting surprises! Families are invited to join in the fun with beloved carols, old and new, that everyone can sing along to, creating a truly unforgettable musical experience for all!

A Bristol Choral Christmas

Punk veterans The Damned announce their plans for an extensive UK tour in 2024 to celebrate the return of original drummer Rat Scabies – marking the first time this line-up has played together since 1989.

The Damned

The Buena Bristol Social Club is a testament to the enduring spirit and essence of the Buena Vista tradition, skillfully brought to life by a talented ensemble under the guidance of Michel Padron. The band’s music is a blend of traditional Cuban rhythms, jazz, and folk, with a unique Bristol twist. They have a wide range of musical influences, from the classic Buena Vista Social Club to modern Latin American music, and their performances are always high-energy and engaging.

Buena Bristol Social Club

Since forming in 1999, the seven-piece’s potent live energy has built a loyal audience of Fred Heads. In 2023 the band toured UK/EU, playing headline and summer festival shows at the likes of Apollo, London, L’Olympia in Paris, Waldbuhne Berlin and Galway International Arts Festival.

Fat Freddy's Drop

Experience a night featuring the best quality soloists around; with the fiery Johnny Bruce (trumpet), saxophonists Ben Waghorn and Kevin Figes; the rare trombone talent of Raph Clarkson and possible the best rhythm section in the South West region, featuring the mighty piano playing of Jim Blomfield.

The Albert All-Stars Big Band

She has released three critically-acclaimed albums ‘Mattiel’, ‘Satis Factory’ and ‘Georgia Gothic’. Mattiel has headlined multiple tours, playing on Jools Holland, Stephen Colbert, and at 2019’s BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Mattiel has also supported Tame Impala on tour, and her very first US arena tour was opening for Jack White, who originally encouraged Mattiel to pursue a career in music.

Mattiel

Critics and fans alike have often drawn comparisons between Lady Nade’s voice and the legendary Nina Simone – an icon and musical storyteller of the twentieth century who left behind a legacy of liberation, empowerment, passion, and love through her extraordinary body of work. As a black woman, Lady Nade acknowledges Nina Simone’s trailblazing role in paving the way for artists of her generation. Simone’s tenacity encouraged them not to abandon their dreams and aspirations. Lady Nade is honored to celebrate Nina Simone’s life and enduring legacy alongside some of the UK’s most accomplished musicians.

Lady Nade sings Nina Simone

Holter has amassed a body of work that explores melody within free song structures, atmosphere, and the impulses of the voice. Her interest in sonic mysteries has led her to record in various settings as well as to perform live, often with a focus on the voice and the space between language and babble. Her latest release, ‘Something in the Room She Moves‘, is inspired by the childlike playfulness of her daughter.

Julia Holter

The concert opens with Kodaly’s lively Dances of Galanta, based on Hungarian folk tunes. The orchestra is then joined by star pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason for Chopin’s achingly lyrical Piano Concerto No. 2.

Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra

Since bursting onto the scene in 2016, Confidence Man have enchanted global audiences with their playful pop-dance tracks and captivating choreography. Their latest album, ‘3AM (LA LA LA)‘, blends acid techno, trance, breakbeat, and big beat for a darker, sexier, and more surreal experience. The group quickly attracted a hardcore fanbase of ravers young and old from their 2022 Glastonbury set.

Confidence Man

Experience the talent of young musicians from across the city as they present the music they’ve been perfecting this term. The Junior Ensembles will perform an eclectic mix of pieces, ranging from timeless classics and popular hits to memorable tunes from TV and film.

Junior Ensembles Winter Showcase 2024

Trinity Academy

His groundbreaking latest album, ‘Carve The Runes Then Be Content With Silence’, was written and recorded three years ago, then immediately planted underground in Scotland with all digital copies permanently deleted. A meditation on value and patience in a world of instant gratification, the tape was eventually found by fans in 2023. It is now out in the world for all to hear how the sound has been manipulated by the soil over that time, standing proudly at the top of the UK Official Classical Album Charts as a totally unique example of collaborating with nature.

Erland Cooper, Sam Lee & Alice Boyd

Fronted by a female horn section with Sheila Maurice-Grey on Trumpet, Anoushka Nanguy on Trombone for live shows, Ayo Salawu on drums, Onome Edgeworth on percussion, Duane Atherley on bass, Tobi Adenaike-Johnson on guitar and Yohan Kebede on keys and synths to complete the vibrant ensemble.

Kokoroko

O2 Academy Bristol

Clark has released numerous critically acclaimed albums which cemented his status at the forefront of electronic music. His self-taught expertise in piano, cello and drums has also taken his career in a new direction as a composer for TV, film and video games.

Bristol Beacon

13 - 16 Aug, 2026

Bluey's Big Play

Oct 19, 2025

Larkin Poe

Oct 14, 2025

Al Stewart

Articles & News

Bristol Beacon