Event News

Family fun at the Music Festival

Sept 2026

Bring the whānau and some cushions and come along for a magical musical adventure with the Druz’ya Quartet at the Martinborough Music Festival’s Family Concert.

“Enjoy an hour of informal, interactive classical music designed to introduce families to the magical world of live music up close,” says Lucas Baker, leader of the quartet. 

Expect lively rhythms and beautiful melodies, woven together with entertaining stories and engaging introductions from the musicians. 

“Little ones are welcome to wriggle and move around — this is a concert made for families, not silence!” says Lucas. 

“See the instruments up close, discover how they work and ask our musicians questions.”

Whether you’re bringing your little one to their very first concert or just looking for an interactive musical experience, this relaxed family concert promises to delight and inspire. And chairs will be available if needed!

Whether you’re bringing your little one to their very first concert or just looking for an interactive musical experience, this relaxed family concert promises to delight and inspire.

There’s also a chance for families to hear some of the local and international artists performing in the main Festival concerts. The musicians will be opening a rehearsal to the public, giving a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how the musicians come together over five days to prepare the four Festival concerts.

“Rehearsals are where all the hard work goes in to preparing for a performance,” says Wilma Smith, one of the artistic directors. “While the dress and banter are informal, the work is serious and sometimes very detailed. This is a lovely opportunity to meet the musicians and see how they work.”

For a look back at previous year’s festivals, check out Kitchener’s Café for an exhibition of photographs taken by local photographer Pete Monk. This exhibition, curated by MMF trustee Marion Townend and Pete Monk, reflect the vibrancy and excitement of performances in our 2021–2025 Festivals. 

Martinborough Music Festival’s Family Concert: 10am-11am, 27 September. St Andrews Church Hall,
41 Dublin St. Koha at the door.

Open Rehearsal: 6pm-7pm, Thursday 24 September. First Church Hall, cnr Weld & Jellicoe Streets.
Koha at the door.

Photographic Exhibition: 7am-2pm, September. Kitchener’s Café, Kitchener St.

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