Things To Do

Hattie Lloyd 18/12/23


Hear Ronnie Scott's Band In A Candlelit Glasshouse

Those in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones…

…because it would distract from all the beautiful live music being played as part of Kew Gardens‘ stunning new candlelit concert series.

Kicking off in May next year, The Nash Sessions will be staged in the Nash Conservatory, which is something of a hidden gem in the gardens. It was originally built in the grounds of Buckingham Palace, and was moved, brick by brick, to Kew in 1836.

It’s much smaller than Kew’s more famous Temperate House and Palm House, which makes for a stunningly intimate setting. Inside, lofty, double-height pillars prop up the glass ceiling and full-length windows looking onto the gardens, and for these concerts the whole place will be dramatically up-lit, with a carpet of candles surrounding the musicians.

candlelit concerts at kew gardens

© Ollie Dixon

Speaking of which… the headline act for the summer will be the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars, the house band at one of the most legendary jazz bars in London. For one night only they’ll be taking you on a whistle-stop tour of the last 60 years in jazz, playing music from 1959 onwards (which is when Ronnie Scott’s first opened).

If jazz isn’t your speed, there’ll be two other concerts in June and October – firstly The Hygge Trio (clarinet, cello & piano) followed by the prize-winning Asaka Quartet. Both groups were formed at the Royal Academy of Music, and both focus on digging out rarely heard masterpieces and under-represented composers…

…just don’t expect any rock & roll.

 

NOTE: The Nash Sessions at Kew Gardens take place on 9th May (Ronnie Scott’s All Stars), 6th June (The Hygge Trio) and 17th October 2024 (Asaka Quartet). Tickets cost £40, and you can book HERE.

The Nash Sessions | Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AE


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The Nash Sessions at Kew


Nash Conservatory, Kew Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AE