MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF THE FRIENDS OF BIF

The Friends, once again, have done us proud. Not only have we seen membership hold up in a year with so many financial pressures, but we’re also humbled by the donations that many Friends have made when purchasing their tickets. During the 2021 and 2022 seasons these additional acts of generosity contributed over £10,000 to our fundraising efforts so a huge thank you to everyone who ‘topped up’ with donations to deliver such an incredible total.

We were also grateful to recently receive legacy gifts from two long-time Friends, the late Patricia Austin and Mary Barstow, who had chosen to support the Festival in their estate plans. Part of these gifts have enabled us to bring The King’s Singers to Buxton, with further support going towards the Young Artists Programme. All of us will have the opportunity to hear and meet some of the young artists when they perform on each of the Friends’ Days on Wednesday 12 and 19 July. We invite everyone to join us in the Assembly Room at the Crescent for an informal cuppa, a catch up and the chance to hear short recitals at 12:45 and 13:45 (booking not required).

The final thank you goes to all those who have already introduced someone new to the Festival this year – these referrals are helping us build our audiences and welcome more people to sample the joy of the Festival this July. It’s not too late to spread the word that there’s something very special taking place in Buxton this summer – we can’t wait to welcome you back.

PETE SPRIGGS Chairman, Friends of BIF