ENGLISH MUSIC FESTIVAL BRINGS NEW CHAPTER OF MUSICAL LIFE TO
DARTINGTON THIS MAY
The English Music Festival (EMF) is delighted to bring its 2026 Festival to Dartington Hall in Devon from
22nd to 25th May, marking an exciting new chapter for both the Festival and this historic centre of musical
life.
For many decades, Dartington was internationally renowned as a hub of artistic activity, most notably
through its much-loved Summer School, which attracted musicians, composers, and audiences from across
the world. Since the School’s relocation, the absence of this long-established tradition has been deeply felt
within the musical and local communities. The arrival of the English Music Festival at Dartington represents
a significant moment in reviving musical activity at the estate. The Festival is honoured to champion its
mission in this uniquely important cultural space, with which it shares a deep appreciation for the Arts,
artistic innovation and excellence.
Central to the Festival’s ethos is a commitment to presenting world-class performances beyond the major
metropolitan centres. Bringing together leading artists and ambitious programming in locations such as
Dartington requires intense planning and collaboration but lies at the heart of the Festival’s mission: to make
outstanding music accessible in places of deep cultural resonance.
In a setting boasting mediaeval buildings, Grade-II listed gardens, and several excellent dining options,
Dartington will make the English Music Festival attendees’ experiences ever more memorable.
The website for The English Music Festival is at:
https://www.englishmusicfestival.org.uk