The Festival Season is promoted by Iford Arts, a registered charity whose aims are to promote,improve, develop and maintain public education and the appreciation of the performing arts in Wiltshire, Bath & North East Somerset and Bristol; particularly in the gardens of Iford Manor, near Bradford on Avon.
There are three important benefits arising from our charitable aims. First, Iford Arts engages and nurtures young professional artists who perform site-appropriate works in an exceptionally intimate setting. This has the benefit of being both entertaining and educational; the calibre of artists and the friendly and informal ambience at Iford helping audiences achieve a better understanding of the operatic repertoire. Secondly, we endeavour to provide a musical environment that will stimulate young persons to appreciate the joy of being involved in live music. In doing this we help facilitate the career development of young musicians; allowing them to develop repertoire, and perform to a supportive audience in a friendly and informal setting. Finally, we encourage the participation of local people in the production and staging of operatic and other live music events. During 2010 we are developing this aspect of our work through an educational project that takes 'Cinderella back to school'.
For more about our work with the community click here, and to join our mailing list, please click here.