Event M19: The Pearl Trio
2026-06-26 19:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Christ Church, Chichester, Old Market Ave, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1SW, United Kingdom
Made up of Tim Rumsey (piano), Leo Kerr (clarinet), and Bríona Mannion (violin), this concert promises to be an hour-long treat of music featuring favourite classical works for this seldom-seen trio combination, along with new jazz arrangements by pianist Tim Rumsey.
The Pearl Trio was formed back in 2020 when Leo, Bríona, and Tim were all students at the Royal Academy of Music. Since then, they have played in various venues and popular lunchtime recital series including Regent Hall and Royal Overseas League in London, with future concerts booked at Champs Hill and Chichester Cathedral. The trio’s equal passion for both folk music and jazz have led them to perform repertoire by Armenian composers Khachaturian and Arutiunian, as well as works by Stravinsky and Milhaud. Pianist Tim Rumsey has also arranged and composed new music to widen their repertoire further, including works by Gershwin and Billy Mayerl.
Recently honoured as an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music, Tim Rumsey is a UK based soloist and chamber musician, having delighted audiences at venues including the Wigmore Hall, Chichester Cathedral and Champs Hill, as well as concert halls further afield in Italy and Spain. Tim launched his debut album, Transcriptions, in Autumn 2025 to great acclaim, being ranked No.4 in Textura’s Top 20 for 2025 (Instrumental).
Leo Kerr graduated from the Royal Academy of Music in 2023, having previously attended St Mary’s Music School where he played Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto with the school’s orchestra after winning their concerto prize. Leo has performed in venues such as the Queen Elizabeth Hall and Snape Maltings alongside the London Sinfonietta and Knussen Chamber Orchestra, as well as live on BBC Radio Scotland and Radio 3.
Bríona Mannion is a passionate chamber musician and soloist who has performed at prestigious festivals and venues such as the Gstaad Menuhin Festival, Pablo Casals Festival, Dublin National Concert Hall and the Queen’s Hall Edinburgh. Bríona completed her Bachelor’s degree with First Class Honours at the Royal Academy of Music, and her Master’s at the Haute École de Musique Lausanne.

Event M20: A European Odyssey
2026-06-26 19:30 - 20:30 | St George’s Church, Whyke, Cleveland Road,, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 7AD, United Kingdom
Hampshire Recorder Sinfonia’s stunning musical performances under the direction of Helen Hooker have undoubtedly reversed the public’s perception of the recorder’s extraordinary sound and capability. All seven sizes of instrument from the tiny sopranino to the growling subcontrabass will feature in this evening’s characterful musical journey across Europe.
The recorder is one of the most quietly beautiful and remarkably adaptable instruments in the world. It’s probably the most underestimated! Ultimately, whatever its size, the mystique of the instrument lies in its paradox: it is simple yet profound, ancient and yet current, delicate yet powerful. In skilled hands it becomes astonishingly expressive and can portray sorrow, joy, mischief and serenity.

Event M21: Magnificent Mozart
2026-06-26 19:30 - 21:30 | Boxgrove Priory Church, Church Ln, Boxgrove, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0EE, United Kingdom
Join Chichester Chorale and soprano Catherine Hamilton for an evening of Mozart in the stunning Boxgrove Priory Church. Programme to include Exsultate, Jubilate (K165), Laudate Dominum (from K339), Missa Brevis in C Major (Spatzenmesse K220) and Litaniae Lauretanae (K109). Accompanied by The Chichester Chamber Ensemble and conducted by Tom Robson.
Catherine Hamilton grew up in Chichester and at the age of ten was the first singer to be awarded a Junior Exhibitioner’s scholarship in the history of the Royal Academy of Music. She enjoys an international career spanning opera, oratorio, recitals, and musical theatre, and is delighted to be returning to Chichester to join Chichester Chorale for this concert.
Chichester Chorale, founded in 2004 by Arthur Robson and Mark Wardell, return for their annual concert as part of the Festival of Chichester in the idyllic setting of Boxgrove Priory. They are joined by The Chichester Chamber Ensemble and conducted by their Musical Director since 2019, Tom Robson.
Programme:
Mozart – Litaniae Lauretanae (K109)
Mozart – Exultate, Jubilate (K165)
Mozart – Ave verum corpus (K618)
Mozart – Laudate Dominum (from Vesperae solennes de confessore K339)
Mozart – Missa Brevis in C Major “Spatzenmesse” (K220)
Catherine Hamilton, soprano
Chichester Chorale
The Chichester Chamber Ensemble
Tom Robson, conductor
Chichester Chorale would be delighted to welcome you at this event for what promises to be a wonderful evening, with a fully stocked bar.

Event M22: 2026 Chichester Jazz Club All-Stars
2026-06-26 19:45 - 22:15 | Pallant Suite, 7 S Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1SY, United Kingdom
A wonderful sextet of high-quality musicians brought together by Chichester Jazz Club for the Festival of Chichester.
Hannah Horton – Saxophones
Roger Beaujolais – Vibraphone
Rosie Frater-Taylor – Guitar
David Newton – Piano
Andrew Cleyndert – Double Bass
Alex Goodyear – Drums
Hannah Horton is an award-winning saxophonist, a rising star of the UK jazz scene and a Selmer Artist. Hannah has carved a distinctive voice on both baritone and tenor saxophones and has performed alongside many British jazz greats including Claire Martin and Tony Kofi. Roger Beaujolais is a well-established vibraphone player, playing regularly with other jazz stars. As well as touring with his own jazz bands he has played on many pop sessions. Rosie Frater-Taylor is a virtuoso guitarist, vocalist & songwriter. She was spotlighted in Quincy-Jones’ Quest TV Best of Jazz UK 2024 playlist and performs at many major festivals.
David Newton is a 16-times winner as Best Pianist in the British Jazz Awards. He is very well established on the British Jazz scene and toured with Stacey Kent for 10 years. Andrew Cleyndert has been nominated for The British Jazz Awards every year since they started. He has toured with Stan Tracey and performs regularly with many UK stars such as Alan Barnes. Alex Goodyear has become a regular of the UK Jazz scene, with collaborations including John Law’s Re-Creations, and the trio Yetii, as well as numerous performances with British and international Jazz stars.

Event A3: Chichester Art Society Annual Exhibition
2026-06-27 10:00 - 16:30, 2026-06-30 10:00 - 16:30, 2026-07-01 10:00 - 16:30, 2026-07-02 10:00 - 16:30, 2026-07-03 10:00 - 16:30 | Oxmarket Contemporary, St. Andrew's Court, off East Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1YH, United Kingdom
The Society’s annual exhibition of original and contemporary art offers a wonderful opportunity to acquire unique artwork at an affordable price. There will be a wide range of works including paintings, prints, sculpture and ceramics.
The Chichester Art Society is looking forward to another wonderful exhibition of members’ work. The society was founded in 1939 and is at the heart of our community in Chichester and the surrounding area. Then, as now, we welcome artists as members and visitors.
Please come along and see our work and hear more about our programme of events throughout the year. We offer fortnightly demonstrations and talks by visiting professional artists, one-day workshops with professional art tutors, a weekly drop-in session, painting with Friends, summer sketching/plein-air painting outings and visits to galleries.
We also have a reference and borrowing library of a wide range of art books. Pick up a leaflet at the exhibition or check us out on Facebook and Instagram.
For more information, please visit our website.

Event WT8: Textile Tour
2026-06-27 11:00 - 11:45 | Chichester Cathedral, Chichester Cathedral, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1PX, United Kingdom
Explore the Cathedral’s rich textile heritage, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Piper Tapestry.
Beyond this landmark work, fibre art is everywhere throughout the building, from Victorian embroideries to contemporary fibre art.

Event C6: Chichester Gala
2026-06-27 11:00 - 21:00 | Priory Park, Chichester, Priory Rd,, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1NS, United Kingdom
Chichester Gala, Saturday 27h June, in Priory Park. Come and enjoy a great day out of music, dance, food, games, animal petting and funfair. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, we’re sure you will find something to enjoy. Free entry.
Come and enjoy a great day out of music, dance, food, games, animal petting and funfair at the Chichester Gala on Saturday 27h June, in Priory Park. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, we’re sure you will find something to enjoy.
Chichester Gala is a free-entry community event for all. Get ready for an unforgettable day of fun and festivities as the Gala, hosted by the Chichester City Council, brings Priory Park come alive with excitement and great entertainment for all ages. Tradition meets modernity as the beloved Chichester Gala, brings back cherished memories while creating new ones. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, this event promises something for everyone.
As well as stalls and entertainment, there will be a grand raffle and the draw for an exciting shop window Cuckoo Trail. Details are available online, in the free Gala brochure or at the City Council House, North Street. Bring the whole family and friends to the Park and enjoy the traditional atmosphere of community spirit and celebration with captivating activities and entertainment.
For more information, contact Claire Adams on 01243 788502 (option 1) or visit chichestercity.gov.uk.

Event SW14: Hope Through Education for the Girls of Afghanistan
2026-06-27 14:00 - 16:30 | Friends Meeting House, Chichester, Priory Rd, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1NX, United Kingdom
Fearless campaigner Angela Ghayour, an Afghan herself, set up her charity to bring learning mainly to girls and women of the country despite the Taliban’s restrictions. CEO & founder of Afghanistan Education Action (AEA), Angela will talk about the work and the hope it gives to excluded people of the country.
AEA open doors to learning for children and young people who need it most. From village classrooms to skills training and digital learning, programmes give students the tools to shape brighter futures.
AEA focuses on girls, displaced families and vulnerable communities, ensuring education reaches those too often left behind. Every lesson builds confidence, opportunity, and hope, transforming lives and strengthening communities.
AEA says that with every student it supports, it is proving that education doesn’t just change minds: it changes futures.

Event M23: Strings of Light (Secrets of the Harp Guitar)
2026-06-27 16:30 - 17:30 | Chichester City Arts Centre, Chichester City Arts Centre, Mount Lane, Chichester, PO19 3DQ, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 3DQ, United Kingdom
International award-winning guitarist and composer Jon Pickard presents a rare solo performance on the extraordinary 23-string harp-guitar. Blending classical, folk and original music, shimmering textures and lyrical storytelling create an immersive, transporting experience. “Weaves a flying carpet on the strings… almost unbelievable, technically and stylistically.” — Akustik Gitarre Magazine.
International award-winning guitarist and composer Jon Pickard presents a rare solo performance on the extraordinary 23-string harp-guitar, an instrument whose extended range and resonance create a soundworld unlike anything else in contemporary guitar music. Melody, harmony, and deep sympathetic bass lines unfold together, surrounding the listener in layers of sound that feel both ancient and alive. The programme moves between classical, folk, and original compositions, shaped into music that feels less like a conventional concert and more like a shared experience. There is an echo of older traditions here — when musicians were storytellers, and music carried memory, place, and meaning. The performance invites stillness and attention, drawing audiences out of everyday time and into something slower and more elemental.
Rooted in an instrument with over 300 years of history, the harp-guitar carries traces of early European music while opening up textures that feel strikingly modern. Pickard’s approach is immersive and cinematic, allowing resonance and silence to work together. Audiences frequently describe a powerful sense of journey and transformation, with BritishTheatre.com observing, “In Pickard’s hands the ability of the instrument to teleport the listener is breath-taking.”
Emotion lies at the centre of the music. The performances are quietly intense, offering moments of reflection, wonder, and emotional depth. As The Fine Times Recorder writes, “Beautiful, atmospheric….profoundly emotional and spiritual…You want to close your eyes and let the pictures created by the musician take you.”
Widely respected on both sides of the Atlantic, Pickard is recognised as one of the foremost harp-guitarists of his generation. In 2025, he won Best Guitar Composition at the Široki Brijeg Guitarist Festival, affirming his voice as both composer and performer. Critics consistently highlight the rarity of the experience, with Akustik Gitarre Magazine praising his playing as “almost unbelievable, technically and stylistically.”

Event M05: The Sound of Katie Brown
2026-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Fernleigh, 40 North Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1LX, United Kingdom
A trio of events featuring live music from soprano, Katie Brown. Her performances will include multiple genres, powerful vocals and crowd favourites. She invites you to join her uplifting showcase where there will be something for everyone, whether it be her music, great food or even just the bar.
An enchanting trio of events at Fernleigh, where the timeless voice of Katie Brown fills the room with music. Set within this lovely venue, guests will enjoy a refined atmosphere. Fernleigh’s thoughtfully prepared food and exceptional drinks will be complemented by Katie’s music; creating a unique vibe for each event – rich in sound, taste, and ambience.
Tickets are free to reserve, and any food/drink can be paid for on arrival.
Sunday, June 14 (14:00-16:00) – Tea and Tunes
Saturday, June 27 (19:00-21:00) – Sip and Song
Thursday, July 9 (18:30-20:30) – Boards and Ballads
Tickets for June 14 and July 9 cost £40, including either afternoon
tea (June 14th) or fizz + charcuterie board (July 9th). There’s no cover
charge for walk-ins on any of the three events, subject to available
space.
To pre-book the £40 package for Sunday June 14 (14:00-16:00) Tea &
Tunes, please use this link:
https://www.fernleighchichester.co.uk/whats-on/katie-brown-afternoon-tea
To pre-book the £40 package for Thursday July 9th (18:30-20:30) Boards &
Ballads (aka Charcuterie & Fizz Night), please use this link:
https://www.fernleighchichester.co.uk/whats-on/charcuterie-fizz-night-katie-brown

Event M25: Nashville Nights
2026-06-27 19:00 - 22:00 | Boxgrove Village Hall, The Street, Boxgrove, Chichester, PO18 0EE
Y’all ready for a night of boots, hats, and big country fun? Nashville Nights is comin’ to The Boxgrove, and it’s gonna be a rip-roarin’, toe-tappin’ evening you won’t forget!
We’ve got live music all the way, from classic country hits by legends like Shania Twain, Dolly Parton, and Lee Ann Womack, to a little Elvis magic thrown in just for fun. And don’t worry — the band’s also serving up a few original country songs, bringing fresh tunes to a night already bursting with energy.
Sharing the stage are award-winning performers John Gleadall, DiElle, and Chris Wood, whose signature harmonies and playful performances will have you smiling, clapping, and maybe even boot-scootin’ along. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer, you’re covered — we’ll teach beginner-friendly line dances during selected songs, plus seated and hand-jive versions so everyone can join in. Only about three dances on the night, so you can try ’em out — or just sit back, sip your drink and soak up the music.
We’ll kick off 7:30–8pm with a quick run-through of the dances, then let the music roll at 8pm. Don’t fret — the band will recap the moves as each number comes up, so you’re never lost. Cowboy boots and hats are welcome, but not required — what matters most is having fun, laughing, and enjoying great country tunes with friends.
So grab a buddy, put on your boots (or just your listening ears), and join us for a night of Nashville magic, live music, and plenty of yee-haws!

Event M24: Strings Of Light (Secrets of the Harp-Guitar)
2026-06-27 19:30 - 20:40 | Chichester City Arts Centre, Chichester City Arts Centre, Mount Lane, Chichester, PO19 3DQ, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 3DQ, United Kingdom
International award-winning guitarist and composer Jon Pickard presents a rare and spellbinding performance on 23-string Harp-Guitars. Classical, folk and original compositions. Shimmering textures, lyrical storytelling. A truly immersive musical journey. “Weaves a flying carpet on the strings… almost unbelievable, technically and stylistically.” — Akustik Gitarre Magazine.
Bar refreshments available.
Strings Of Light will transport audiences back to a time when bards would play music and tell stories around a fire. The music creates atmosphere as much as it creates form, surrounding the listener and encouraging imagination to take over.
Rooted in an instrument with over 300 years of history, the harp-guitar carries echoes of early European traditions while revealing possibilities that still feel startlingly new. Many audience members describe a vivid sense of journey and transformation, as quoted by BritishTheatre.com: “In Pickard’s hands the ability of the instrument to teleport the listener is breath-taking.”
Musical storytelling lies at the centre of the programme. The music speaks directly, offering moments of reflection, wonder, and stillness. The Fine Times Recorder describes it as “Beautiful, atmospheric… profoundly emotional and spiritual… You want to close your eyes and let the pictures created by the musician take you.” Each piece becomes a space for personal interpretation, where images and stories arise naturally in the mind.
Jon is respected on both sides of the Atlantic as one of the foremost harp guitarists of his generation, both for his playing and his beautiful compositions. He designed both of his instruments himself (inspired by others), and still continues to work on new variants.
Critics and venues consistently highlight the rarity of the experience itself:
“A rare musical treat… a consummate musician… a sensitive and versatile player.” — Buxton Fringe
“I have been involved with music all of my life and have never seen nor heard anything to match this. The harp guitar is really quite amazing and your mastery of it is simply staggering.” — The Old Theatre Royal, Bath
For audiences seeking something authentic, immersive, and quietly powerful, this performance offers a chance to reconnect with music as storytelling — intimate, evocative and unforgettable.

Event M26: There is Sweet Music
2026-06-27 19:30 - 21:15 | Boxgrove Priory Church, Church Ln, Boxgrove, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0EE, United Kingdom
South Downs Soloists return to beautiful Boxgrove Priory for their annual professional choral concert in aid of Stonepillow. Expect settings of famous poetry and poets associated with West Sussex (Shelley and Tennyson), with music as wide-ranging as Elgar, Walton and Lukaszewski, plus exciting new music for the occasion.

Event M27: An Evening with the Southdowns Concert Band
2026-06-27 19:30 - 21:30 | St Paul’s Church, Chichester, Churchside,, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6FT, United Kingdom
The Southdowns Concert Band are delighted to return to the Festival again this year. The programme will include music from films and shows as well as the very best from the Concert Band repertoire.
Discover more about the Southdowns Concert Band.

Event WT2: Highlights of Chichester
2026-06-28 11:30 - 13:00 | Chichester Cathedral Bell Tower, West Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1PX, United Kingdom
Join us for a 90-minute stroll through the charming, narrow streets of Chichester, taking in the history from the Romans to the present day.
Runs every Sunday of the festival. To book or to choose a different date, see www.chtg.co.uk and contact us via info@chtg.co.uk.

Event W7: Introduction to Indian Blockprinting
2026-06-28 13:30 - 15:30 | Jam Café / Creative Beatz, 33 Southgate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1DP, United Kingdom
Join Sussex printmaker Sarita for a hands-on Indian woodblock printing workshop. Practise using carved wooden blocks to print cards and notelets before creating a cushion cover, tea towel or tote bag to take home. Perfect for beginners, this relaxed session builds confidence while exploring colour, pattern and traditional printing.
Join Sarita for a joyful, hands-on introduction to the timeless art of wood block printing. Sarita will demonstrate how to print using her extensive collection of beautifully hand-carved wooden block stamps, all created by skilled artisans in India. She’ll share practical tips on designing your layout, working with fabric paints, and creating balanced, eye-catching compositions. You’ll begin by practising your technique on cards or notelets — to keep and use later. Once you’re feeling confident and inspired, you’ll move on to printing a fabric piece. You can choose from either a cushion cover, tea towel or tote bag and create a unique handmade item you’ll be proud to show off.
This relaxed two-hour session will help you switch off, unwind, and immerse yourself in creativity. You’ll leave feeling inspired, and delighted with your handcrafted pieces. You will go home with a set x 4 hand printed cards and envelopes and your printed fabric item.
Suitable for children aged 7+ when accompanied by an adult. A particularly fun activity for parent and teens!

Event C7: Chichester Society: Regeneration in the City
2026-06-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Assembly Room at the Council House, Chichester, The Council House, North St, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1LQ, United Kingdom
Our annual summer forum is an information-sharing event about significant local issues. Our topic this year is regeneration. Speakers from the District Council will explain Chichester’s regeneration strategy and specific proposals both short and long term. Do attend this free event and contribute to our usual lively discussion.
Chichester District Council’s Regeneration Strategy sets out the opportunities that can help respond to wider issues around attracting investment and business, enhancing employment opportunities, infrastructure development and sustainability, as well as physical transformation. It is a significant and important strategy to assist in the long-term planning of support that the council can provide to help with the economic sustainability of our historic city. Do come and contribute. All welcome.

Event T2: Pergola Open Air Theatre
2026-06-29 19:30 - 21:45 | West Dean Gardens, West Dean, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0RX, United Kingdom
Enjoy an enchanting summer evening’s theatre with six performances of Shakespeare’s everlastingly-popular masterpiece alternating with Ayckbourn’s classic comedy. You are welcome to bring your own picnics from 5.30pm.
For further info, see the West Dean website.
Come to this glorious setting at this ever-popular venue and enjoy two contrasting and entertaining shows to lift your spirits on a summer’s evening. You are welcome to bring your own picnics from 5.30pm. Please see the West Dean Gardens website for further info regarding picnics and restaurant.

Event M60: Zoe Schwarz and Rob Kora
2026-06-30 19:00 - 22:20 | Upstairs @ Raps, 30 Southgate, Chichester, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1DP, United Kingdom
Zoe Schwarz and Rob Koral – a duo of exceptional quality, fronted by the stellar vocals of Zoe Schwarz; you really shouldn’t miss the opportunity to enjoy them live.
Upstairs @ Raps is the brand-new venue in the heart of Chichester. Think cool Soho vibe: Just 50 seats, table service, cool jazz and blues providing an intimate soundtrack.
Check out our listings for an unforgettable night out of Jazz and Blues in a solo, Duo and Trio format.

Event C8: Goodwood Art Foundation and Sage House Lunch
2026-07-01 12:00 - 15:00 | Goodwood Art Foundation, Goodwood Art Foundation, New Barn Hill,, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0QP, United Kingdom
The stunning Goodwood Art Foundation is hosting a unique lunch to celebrate the arts in Chichester and to raise money for the pioneering dementia support work of Sage House at Tangmere.
Thanks to the globally renowned Chichester Festival Theatre, our city has attracted some of the biggest celebrities. But what were they really like? No one knows better than the Chichester Observer’s acclaimed arts editor Phil Hewitt, who is also the founding chairman of the Festival of Chichester.
Phil will be revealing ‘Secrets of the Stars’ at the Foundation’s unique dining experience on Wednesday, July 1 – and you won’t want to miss it. Stories about Dame Patricia Routledge, his attempts to pursue the entire I, Claudius cast, talking to greats including Leo McKern, Leslie Phillips, and Joss Ackland – and why he has never felt more nervous than interviewing a Rolling Stone.
Phil said: “There will also be tales of an encounter with the grumpiest ever rock star, my delightful chat with a real-life Python – of the Monty kind – and the incredible thrill of watching Hercule Poirot appear before my very eyes.”
The lunch will be hosted by the incoming High Sheriff of West Sussex Gary Shipton – who has himself been associated with the Observer for nearly half a century – with all profits in aid of Sage House. Phil will take the opportunity to quiz Gary on his new role too.
There are only 70 places at the lunch and tickets priced £60 (which include a glass of fizz) are expected to sell out quickly. So secure yours today at www.dementiasupport/event-details-registration/goodwood-art-foundation-lunch. We look forward to seeing you there.
The dining event offers a small plates menu inspired by the surrounding landscape. The menu will showcase seasonal and foraged ingredients alongside organic produce from Goodwood’s Home Farm.

Event M28: By The Sleepy Lagoon - Selsey Gramophone Society
2026-07-01 14:30 - 16:30 | Selsey Town Hall, 55 High Street,, Selsey, West Sussex, PO20 0RB, United Kingdom
Embark on a metaphorical musical meander to the shores of the Sleepy Lagoon. Inspired by the natural beauty that moved composer Eric Coates, presenter Martin Elliott weaves together a rich tapestry of audio recordings relating to the history, sociology, and hidden landmarks of the Manhood area, while on the way.
The Selsey Gramophone Society, now entering its fifth year, runs a meeting once a month under the auspices of Arts Dream Selsey to play audio recordings of a wide range of genres and in a variety of formats. This coming July 1 meeting is extra special in highlighting well-known features of the Manhood Peninsula through recordings and readings related to the local landscape and its natural environment. Presenter and co-leader of the Society, Martin Elliott, will take you on a metaphorical trip from Chichester, around the Pagham Harbour Reserve and on via the Sleepy Lagoon to that lovely stretch of English coast, Selsey’s East Beach. The overall theme title to this unique meeting is A Musical Meander to the Sleepy Lagoon.
Our listeners love the idea of a monthly theme given by a different presenter and the Society always allows time for them to bring their own selections to be shared. They particularly like to bring choices relating to the month’s theme, setting themselves a challenge to find related recordings. The July meeting will be no exception, so feel free to think outside the box and not be too literal if you feel you wish to take this challenge on.
The Society’s meetings are usually held in the Selsey Club, Coxes Road, (club membership is not required), on the first Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm where refreshments are easily available. Arts Dream Selsey will provide a variety of refreshments at the July meeting in Selsey’s Town Hall in exchange for a donation to the charity’s funds, while entrance to the event is free.
Further information at www.artsdreamselsey.co.uk and on TicketSource. Free admission. Refreshments by donations.

Event M29: 60 Minutes of Classical Music
2026-07-01 16:30 - 17:30 | Bognor Club, 2 Sudley Rd, Bognor Regis, PO21 1EU, United Kingdom
Roger Clayden cello and bass trombone with Christopher Taylor (piano) perform sixty-minute concerts. The first half of each will be famous Edward Elgar works with Roger playing cello; the second half will be a selection of famous classical works on the bass trombone. All works will be accompanied by Christopher Taylor playing piano. The ticket price includes a free glass of red or white wine.

Event SW15: Jenny Andersson – Centres For Life
2026-07-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Old Court Room at the Council House, Chichester, North St,, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1LQ, United Kingdom
Jenny Andersson returns to talk about her study for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, how Centres For Life can help revitalise and regenerate places, followed by a collective exploration of the regenerative horizon for Chichester. Questions like what are Centres For Life and why are they important will be explored.
Jenny Andersson, of Really Regenerative CIC, returns to help us explore how Centres For Life can help revitalise, regenerate and renew vibrancy in urban and rural places. What are Centres For Life? Why are they important? What’s their role in shaping the future? How do they form? What do they look like? Do we have any in Chichester that can energise our culture, economy and ecology? All these questions and more will be explored.
Really Regenerative’s founder Jenny Andersson will give a short talk on Centres For Life from her published study for Joseph Rowntree Foundation – Enabling Conditions for Place-Based Community-Led Regeneration, followed by a collective exploration with attendees of what’s on the future regenerative horizon for Chichester. We’ll work in groups to explore key questions about the future. What Centres do we need, do we want and how can we bring them to life? What do we already have that we could build on? How ready are we in Chichester to bring these Centres to life; what strengths do we have, what’s missing from our capabilities, what are our best opportunities and what other projects could inspire us? How could such Centres be funded, financed and supported?
Join us for a vitalising exploration of how Centres For Life underpin the potential for regenerative futures in Chichester.

Event SW16: Sussex Folk Song and Folk Song Collectors
2026-07-01 19:30 - 21:00 | Chichester City Arts Centre, Chichester City Arts Centre, Mount Lane, Chichester, PO19 3DQ, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 3DQ, United Kingdom
Historian and folk singer Chris Hare will introduce the old folk songs of Sussex, explaining their origin and meaning. He will also consider the Victorian and Edwardian folk songs collectors who saved so many old songs from oblivion. Chris will also be singing some of these ancient ballads.

Event A4: Pictures in the Porch + 100
2026-07-03 11:00 - 18:00 | Juno Studio, Chichester, 107 Cedar Dr,, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 3EL, United Kingdom
Catherine Barnes offers an exhibition of 20 paintings in the porch, plus 100 others in the store. Choose two from a catalogue in the car port. You sit; we bring; we hang; you look. A unique opportunity to spend time looking at your choice. Unlimited street parking at weekend. Families welcome.
Catherine was a student at Folkestone School of Art and Camberwell School of Arts and Crafts in the 1960s and subsequently at Goldsmiths’ College, London. She has exhibited widely since the 1980s in England and Europe as well as locally. Catherine has also been a visiting lecturer at the University of Southampton and a visiting art historian and tutor at Southampton City Art Gallery.
“It was during lockdown in 2021, when nothing was open, I found a way to hold a Covid safe exhibition in my porch where individuals could view about 20 paintings and another collection in the display rack. Instead of looking at images on tiny screens it was rewarding at that time to enable people to experience the real paintings – the building up of an oil painting or the texture of an etching. I found it unforgettable how, after lockdown, people reacted.
“Visitors in 2026 can experience a selection of work in the porch, then sit and choose a few of the 100 or more paintings, prints or drawings (from photographs) and look at the real thing in the garden (in the Studio if wet). The work will be arranged in categories: Landscapes, Seascapes, Greek & Roman Studies and Figurative.
“We are a 20-minute walk from the Cathedral, good wheelchair access, with limited parking in the drive on Friday, but unlimited parking in Cedar Drive at the weekend.”
107 Cedar Drive, Chichester, PO19 3EL Look out for the bunting.
Website www.catherinebarnes.com and phone 07977 516730.

Event SW11-2: Small Ship Ocean, Rivers, Expedition Cruising and Tours
2026-07-03 13:00 - 15:00 | New Park Centre, Chichester, New Park Rd, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 7XY, United Kingdom
Roger Mallock, store manager of Fred Olsen Travel, Chichester, and his team Katy and Gary, are hosting two enticing cruise talks as part of the Festival, which will give guests the opportunity to learn all they wish to know about small ship, river and expedition cruises and tours.
The author of Cruisemaster, the book on cruising for newcomers, Roger is a former Future Cruise Sales Manager onboard the Fred Olsen Cruise Line fleet and returns to the Festival for the third time in 2026.
These two unique cruise talks (also on 25th June at 13.00) will feature such household names as Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Saga Cruises, Azamara Cruises, HX Expeditions, AMA Waterways and APT Tours, each bringing to life their own product, after which guests can mingle and chat to the suppliers at their leisure.
Find out about the range of options open to you between ocean, river and expedition and many destinations from around UK cruises, the Mediterranean jewels or Scandinavian gems from local ports to fly-cruises or river cruises in Europe and worldwide. From mini cruises of a few days to world cruises of many months or adventure in Antarctica, these talks will whet the appetite for bucket-list trips and more…..
Meet the team
Roger, Katy and Gary are all vastly experienced with jointly over 100 years experience after careers in the travel industry across very broad areas. This extensive knowledge means we will find the right solution for you, with all travel financially protected when booked. We are members of ABTA.
Fred Olsen Travel are part of the largest travel consortia in the UK, which means you get the keenest prices and finest value for money… Old-fashioned, personal, high street and attentive service awaits you.
