Musical breaks in Bath – feed your heart and soul

Of all city destinations, breaks in Bath would frequently be at the top of the poll. For many, top of their list is  the Georgian architecture, others applaud the superb collection of independent retailers, and yet more claim that Bath has everything on offer one would expect from a far larger city. Without doubt, breaks in Bath have a tendency to be tremendously successful and delightfully memorable. For those who enjoy festivals, one such unforgettable event takes place in late May.

Visit Bath in late May and you will struggle not to feel the beat on the street! Weekend breaks Bath on Friday 17 May, mark the opening of The Bath International Music Festival.  With roots that may be tracked back to 1948, the festival is well on its way to celebrating 75 unbroken years of activity.

The festival has won a strong national and international reputation for an undistracted commitment to both local and international musicians and social issues. This twin thread of musical endeavour and social conscience is woven throughout the music, performance and activities. The celebration is renowned for the opening Friday night, Party in the City, when over 2,000 musicians and performers local to Bath fill the streets and venues of Bath with their unique rhythmic music and sparkling entertainment. For 2013 and 2014 the festival will thrive under the leadership of Alasdair Nicolson, a versatile musician and acclaimed composure, The appointment of Alasdair follows in a tradition whereby Bath actively seeks a director who is a recognised practicing musician in their own right.

Over the years, the festival has been led by a number of internationally recognised musicians, Michael Tippett, William Glock, Joanna MacGregor and perhaps the most well-known would be Yehudi Menuhin. The nature and intention of The Bath International Festival is to push the boundaries – both of the musicians and their audience. In 2014 Alasdair Nicholson has won acclaim for the breadth of the line up. Stacey Kent from America; one of Finland’s most recognised musicians, Iiro Rantala; fans of the harp will be graced by Gabriella Dall’Olio, while those unfamiliar with the accordion will enjoy an inspirational performance by Martynas Levickis

Visiting Bath in late May for the annual Bath Music Festival will feed the soul. An experience only enhanced by staying at one of the boutique hotels Bath has to offer. Alternatively, choose a more modest guesthouse or simple bed and breakfast in Bath. Wherever you stay in Bath, rest assured you will leave relaxed, refreshed and inspired by the talented musicians, many of whom you will have embraced.

Breaks in Bath   - Contact us for a memorable short stay in one of UK’s most beautiful city centres.