Every season the Society brings the best of today’s performers, and this season is no exception. Some years, no particular effort is made to consider the ages of those selected, but this season, all can safely be categorised as having age on their side.

The season begins in October with Thomas Kelly. Thomas has begun 2026 with an extremely hectic schedule, touring extensively after taking second prize in the Liszt International competition in January. In November we welcome the young Scot, Ethan Loch. Ethan was born blind, but this has not held him back – winner of the keyboard section of the BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2022 – and an avid composer. Amiri Harewood is one of the current artists supported by the Countess of Munster Musical Trust and is a pupil of Danny Driver, who played for us last season. Born in Kazakhstan and based in London, following studies at the Royal College of Music, Samson Tsoy is one part of an international duo with Pavel Kolesnikov. Currently studying at the Royal Northern College, Rose McLachlan follows her brother, Callum, as a performer at the society. The only pianist to have played here previously, Mishka Rushdie Momen, makes a return after her performance in November 2014.

I regularly mention the need for new blood to join the committee in order to secure the future, long-term management of the Society. Whilst we have one new member since last season, this situation remains, so if you become a member in 2026-27, and value the future of the Society please consider whether you could join us – drop me an email, have a chat with myself or any other committee member or attend the AGM after the first recital in October.

We continue to be grateful for commercial and personal sponsorship, but additional sponsors would be most welcome. Ultimately, the life blood of any Society is dependent upon membership levels and audience numbers, so please continue to spread the word, particularly amongst the young!

Greg Johnson
Chairman & Concert Secretary

Email: gregwj1949@gmail.com