The Delightful Recorder Companions

The Delightful Recorder Companions is a special live recital presented by The Early Music Shop as part of its popular 2026 Live Music Series at Snape Maltings. Taking place on 14 August 2026, this free performance celebrates Recorder31, an annual event dedicated to promoting the recorder and its rich musical heritage.

Featuring renowned performer Liz Page alongside talented recorder ensemble members, this recital showcases beautiful music spanning the Renaissance, Baroque, and modern eras. The event provides audiences with an intimate opportunity to experience historically informed performances in one of the United Kingdom's most respected venues for early music.

Whether you are an experienced musician, a recorder enthusiast, a student of historical performance, or someone discovering early music for the first time, this event promises an engaging and memorable afternoon.

Early Music Shop

The Early Music Shop has been one of the UK's leading specialists in historical musical instruments for decades. Known internationally for supplying authentic period instruments, accessories, and sheet music, the organization also actively supports education and live performance throughout Britain.

Its regular recital series at Snape Maltings brings internationally respected artists together with local audiences in relaxed, welcoming performances designed to introduce more people to the beauty of early music.

Event Highlights

Visitors can enjoy numerous experiences throughout the recital:

• Outstanding live recorder ensemble performance.
• Music by celebrated composers including Dowland, Mattheson, Britten, and other early masters.
• Informal atmosphere suitable for all ages.
• Meet fellow early music enthusiasts after the concert.
• Complimentary refreshments following the recital.

Why Attend?

Early music offers listeners an opportunity to hear historical compositions performed using authentic instruments and traditional playing techniques. This recital demonstrates the remarkable versatility of the recorder, revealing its expressive capabilities far beyond classroom music lessons.

Attendees will:

• Experience authentic historical performance.
• Discover unique recorder repertoire.
• Learn more about Renaissance and Baroque music.
• Meet musicians and fellow enthusiasts.
• Enjoy a relaxing evening in the beautiful surroundings of Snape Maltings.

Featured Artists

The recital stars Liz Page & Friends, performing as The Delightful Recorder Companions. Their programme includes works for recorder consort featuring carefully selected compositions that demonstrate the instrument's expressive range and musical beauty.

Venue Experience

Snape Maltings is one of Britain's finest cultural destinations. Located in Suffolk's picturesque countryside, the venue is internationally recognised for outstanding acoustics and beautiful surroundings.

Guests can also enjoy:

• Historic architecture
• Riverside scenery
• Independent cafés
• Music shops
• Art galleries
• Easy parking

Perfect For

This event is ideal for:

• Classical music fans
• Recorder players
• Music teachers
• Conservatoire students
• Families
• Cultural tourists
• Amateur musicians
• Early music societies

Educational Value

Students and teachers will benefit from hearing professional performers demonstrate historically informed performance techniques. The recital serves as an inspiring educational experience for anyone interested in music history, ensemble playing, or period instruments.

Networking Opportunities

Although primarily a concert, the informal atmosphere encourages conversations between audience members, performers, educators, and representatives of The Early Music Shop. It provides an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and build connections within the UK's vibrant early music community.

Why Snape Maltings?

Snape Maltings has become synonymous with world-class musical experiences. The venue combines outstanding acoustics with an intimate atmosphere, making every recital engaging and memorable.

Admission Information

Admission is completely free, and no advance booking is required. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure the best seats.

The Recorder31 Celebration

Recorder31 is an international celebration promoting the recorder through concerts, workshops, educational activities, and performances worldwide. The Delightful Recorder Companions recital forms an important part of this annual initiative by introducing audiences to the recorder's remarkable artistic possibilities.

A Relaxed Musical Afternoon

Unlike formal concert settings, The Early Music Shop recital series creates a welcoming environment where visitors can simply enjoy exceptional performances without the pressure of dress codes or ticketing. Complimentary refreshments following the recital allow audiences to continue discussions and meet performers.

Supporting Early Music

By attending this recital, visitors also support the continued promotion of early music performance and education throughout the United Kingdom. The Early Music Shop continues to invest in preserving musical heritage while introducing new generations to historical instruments and repertoire.

Event Summary

The Delightful Recorder Companions promises an inspiring musical experience featuring exceptional performers, beautiful historical repertoire, and a welcoming atmosphere in one of Britain's most celebrated concert venues. Whether you are a lifelong enthusiast or simply curious about early music, this recital offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience authentic musical artistry completely free of charge. The combination of professional musicianship, educational value, and community spirit makes this one of the standout events in The Early Music Shop's 2026 recital programme. Event details are based on The Early Music Shop's published 2026 live music schedule.