Songs of Hope and Love

Event information

Alton Arts Festival Presents: Songs of Hope and Love
Classical Music for the Easter Season

Experience an evening of radiant classical music in the atmospheric surroundings of the
Church of St Lawrence, Alton. Songs of Hope and Love is a moving Easter-tide concert
tracing an emotional journey from beginnings and lullabies, through darkness and longing,
towards hope, renewal and celebration.

Drawing inspiration from the rich history of St Lawrence—particularly its Norman origins
and the era of the Battle of Alton—this thoughtfully curated programme spans centuries of
music. From medieval chant to baroque treasures and romantic song, the concert reflects
themes of love, motherhood, nature and transformation, echoing the timeless Easter story.

Acclaimed mezzo-soprano Louisa Hunter-Bradley, following her memorable appearance at
last year’s Christmas event, returns alongside pianist Chris Gardner for an intimate and
expressive performance. Together they bring to life music by extraordinary composers
including Hildegard von Bingen, Barbara Strozzi, Edvard Grieg and Vaughan Williams, with
a special recorder interlude offering a moment of transcendence.

Featuring works by some of history’s most remarkable female composers alongside beloved
classics, this concert is both a reflection on the past and a hopeful prelude to the celebrations of the 2026 Alton Arts Festival. A compelling evening of beauty, reflection and joy—not to be missed.

Event Details
Saturday 28 March 2026
Church of St Lawrence, Alton
Doors & Bar open: 7:30pm
Concert: 8:00pm