Pianists, singers, string players and wind and brass players all have a place at the Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts. Classes run from 7 and under right up to adult. Every performer gets feedback from an experienced adjudicator, and most go home with a mark and a clearer idea of what to practise next.
The festival runs from 6 to 15 May 2027 at Cheltenham Town Hall. Entries open on 1 December 2026 and close on 1 February 2027.
What you can enter
- Piano, with classes by exam grade from Pre-Grade 1 to Post Grade 8, by age and open to adults
- Strings, including harp
- Woodwind and brass
- Singing, from Year 6 and under to adult, with Songs from the Shows and folk song among the classes
- Duets, chamber groups and junior ensembles
- Recorders and music making for the youngest players
School, youth and adult choirs have their own classes too.
Many classes are grouped by exam grade, so a Grade 3 player meets other Grade 3 players. In the piano classes the pieces don’t have to come from a current exam syllabus. They just need to be the right standard.
Not ready for marks? The piano workshops and performance classes are non-competitive, and several ensemble and choir classes come in a non-competitive version. You still get the adjudicator’s comments.
Adults
Music here isn’t only for children. There are open piano classes, a piano class for players aged 35 and over, adult singing classes with championship trophies and open chamber music. Singers can also book a masterclass with a professional accompanist. Places are limited and go to whoever books first.
Accompanists and music
The festival doesn’t provide accompanists, so book yours in good time.
Bring an original copy of your music for the room and a copy for the adjudicator. Without both you’ll get feedback but no mark. Backing tracks are only allowed where the class description says so.
On the day
Arrive early and sign in. Performers play in class order, then the adjudicator gives results and feedback for the whole class. Family and friends are welcome in the audience, and a day ticket costs £7.
Next steps
Questions about music entries? Email info@cfpa.org.uk.