Bishop's Park Area Guide

Programme: George Frederic Handel (1685 1759) Harpsichord Suite No. 5 in E major HWV 430 Prelude Allemande Courante Air and variations "Harmonious Blacksmith" Harpsichord Suite in D minor HWV 448 Ouverture Allemande Courante Sarabande I & II Chaconne Stephen Dodgson (1924 2013) Inventions Domenico Scarlatti (1685 - 1757) Sonata in D minor K 9 Sonata in C major K 513 Sonata in B minor K 27 Sonata in A major K 208 Fandango Event Summary: Polish-British harpsichordist Katarzyna Kowalik performs as a soloist and with period ensembles in the UK and across Europe. She was awarded the Guildhall Artist Fellowship twice after completing a Masters Degree in Historical Performance at the institution. This recital traces musical roots across borders, politics, and time. George Frederic Handel, who lived for a period in Barnes, is represented by two dazzling harpsichord suites, including the famous Harmonious Blacksmith variations. His contemporary Domenico Scarlatti, whose career spanned Italy, Portugal, and Spain, is heard in a vivid selection of sonatas and fiery Fandango. Although their paths first crossed in Italy, both composers later became entangled in the political and cultural currents of 18th-century London, where Scarlattis sonatas even appeared in a striking Jacobite edition. Their music reflects not only virtuosity and invention but also the shifting allegiances of their world. Bringing the story closer to home, the programme also honours Barnes-based composer Stephen Dodgson (19242013), whose Inventions connect modern creativity with the harpsichords long tradition. Together, these works invite us to hear how place, politics, and personality shaped musics roots in Barnes and beyond. Supported by: The Stephen Dodgson Trust

Independent art retailer BobCat Gallery will host a showcase of textile artworks in their Putney space this January. Co-curated by gallery Founder, Catherine Sweet, with textile artist and costume maker Elly Platt, ‘(IM)Material’ will focus on fresh and unusual techniques applied by artists who work with a variety of textiles in their practice. BobCat Gallery is committed to making original artwork more accessible, through both physical and virtual exhibitions and events. Featuring 50+ artists from all over the UK as well as the USA, Spain and Ukraine, (IM)Material will include stitching, weaving, quilting, tapestry, knitting and crochet as well as new and intriguing applications for fabrics and threads. Catherine says: “Textile art is one of our oldest art forms, and yet I am constantly fascinated by how contemporary creatives continue to push boundaries, as well as incorporating diverse narratives into their work. My vision for this show was to focus on the materiality of these works, and the fascinating ways that these artists manipulate their materials to show us their unique perspectives. I’m delighted to be working with talented artist and designer Elly to bring this collection to life.” Elly says: “As a costume maker and textile artist, I think the materiality of textiles is one of the most valuable things about them. Textiles hold memory and stories; they evoke a sense of time and place. They can be everyday ephemera or precious heirlooms, and they connect us with generations past through the act of making. Textiles are one of the fundamental things that connect us as humans, so it’s wonderful to bring together work by talented artists who share the love of this medium.” As part of the wider exhibition, there will be a dedicated selection of works from members of international arts organisation ArtCan. ArtCan is an artist-led, non-profit organisation, working alongside established galleries and also seeking new spaces to involve audiences in an organic and personal way. The exhibition private view will take place on Thursday 8th January from 6-8pm - book your free tickets via BobCat Gallery. There will also be several free talks and demonstrations from exhibiting artists throughout the exhibition - visit the BobCat Gallery website for more information.

Performers: Benjamin Grosvenor, piano Programme: Beethoven Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor for piano Op. 27 No. 2 'Moonlight' Robert Schumann Fantasie in C Op.17 Scriabin Piano Sonata No. 2 in G sharp minor, Op. 19 Chopin Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-flat minor Op. 35 Event Summary: Celebrating the return of St Marys newly renovated Steinway piano, internationally acclaimed British pianist Benjamin Grosvenor presents a recital tracing the evolution of Romantic piano writing. Beethovens transcendent Moonlight Sonata and Schumanns Fantasie in C reveal the emotional and structural innovations that shaped later composers. Scriabins Sonata No. 2 bridges Romantic lyricism with lush chromatic harmonies, before Chopins Sonata No. 2 closes with powerful virtuosity. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music and the youngest British pianist signed to Decca Classics, Grosvenors artistry charts the roots of Romanticism, connecting Beethovens revolutionary spirit to the expressive legacy that followed. Concert Patrons: Lord & Lady Patten Paul Phillips

Performers: Gareth Brynmor John, Noye Felicity Buckland, Mrs Noye Jacqueline Brown, Voice of God James Day, conductor Oscar Simms, director Lucy Ruff, designer St Pauls School & St Pauls Girls School Orchestras Richmond Music Trust pupils from local schools Event Summary: Benjamin Brittens much-loved Noyes Fludde opens this years Barnes Music Festival in joyful, technicolour style. Written in 1957 and premiered in 1958, the piece was conceived for professional musicians performing alongside children, schools and community performers a perfect embodiment of the Festivals spirit. In this half-centenary year, we celebrate fifty years since the work became widely established as one of Brittens most enduring community masterpieces, retelling the story of Noahs Ark with irresistible energy, humour and heart. Featuring a massed cast of local young people, instrumentalists and soloists, this immersive production promises an unforgettable opening to the 2026 Festival.

Unwind in the wetlands: Sip, paint, and let your creativity flow! Unleash your creativity at our next watercolour workshop. Whether you’re a total beginner or already a pro with a brush, WWT resident artist Sam will guide you with tips, tricks, and plenty of encouragement. Come unwind, sip something warm, and create your own nature-inspired masterpiece in a fun, friendly setting. All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring your own. Your ticket includes one hot drink. Please pre-order at checkout so you can sip as you paint. Suitable for: Adults aged 16+ Location: Big View Observatory

Dara Ó Briain is back on tour, with a brand new show!