William Shield Festival | Young Musicians Concert Series

William Shield | Image source copyright free

Saturday 17th October | 10:30am

Community Music Whickham & Swalwell and the Lit and Phil are proud to announce the 2026 William Shield Festival, an annual series of musical concerts to celebrate the life and times of this great, but often overlooked, local musician of yesteryear.William Shield was born in Swalwell in 1748 and rose to the position of Master of the King's Musick and was principal violinist at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. He is buried at Westminster Abbey. Events to celebrate the life and times of this local lad done good will take place in Swalwell (Shield’s birthplace), Newcastle upon Tyne and Whitley Bay.

A showcase of young musical talent.

Both the Lit & Phil and CMWS have a long-standing tradition of supporting and showcasing young musical talent.As part of the William Shield Festival 2026, the Lit & Phil continues its Young Musicians Concert Series, featuring performances by emerging musicians. The programme will include works from the era of William Shield, celebrating the musical heritage of his time.

For details of the whole festival including the Operas please download the leaflet here

The William Shield festival is grateful to Mr A. England for his unfailing support.

A LIVE Lit & Phil Event | FREE

(If you would like to book for this event, please click the link provided)