Music Festivals

Overwhelmed by the countless concerts to choose from?

No worries! Time & Leisure has compiled a list of local highlights to delight musical fans of all genres.  

Epsom Live!
Come for the races, but stay for the music at Epsom Downs. Races start at 6pm, with music following at nine. Whether you prefer oldies, indie rock or classical a different type of music will be showcased ever Thursday. Musical talents include indie-rock band Razorlight and tribute troupe Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular. Ticket price covers both racing and the concert. Whether watching the races or just rocking out, Epsom Live will be an evening full of entertainment.
5 Jul – 2 Aug; every Thursday
Epsom Downs Race course
Per Day: £32 Early Bird, £40 Standard
0844 579 3004
www.epsomdowns.co.uk/live

South West Four Weekender
Calling all electronic and dupbstep fans to Clapham Common. Over the Bank Holiday DJs from around the world will gather to bring you an eclectic collection of dance music. Highlights include Grammy-nominated Skrillex and London’s own John Digweed. There will be eight different stages featuring artists from around the world like Australian group Knife Party and Germany’s Robert Babicz. Ages 15 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Alcohol and food are not permitted inside, but will be sold at the event. This dance music festival is ideal for people who enjoy a club atmosphere.
25 Aug - 26 Aug 2012; 12.00 till 22.00
Clapham Common, London
Weekend £97.50; daily £47.50
www.southwestfour.com/

Sandown Park Music Nights
Since 2006 musical sensations have been performing at the Sandown Park Racecourse. On three separate nights Sir Tom Jones, opera superstar Alfie Boe and pop-sensation Jessie J will take the stage. Gates Open at 4pm with the first race at 6pm; the concert will end around 11pm. If you buy tickets for the premier enclosure, be sure to dress smart casual. There’s no dress code for the concert or grandstand enclosure. Sandown has a designated picnic spot so feel free to bring food and enjoy the festivities.
18 July – Tom Jones ; 25 July – Alfie Boe; 9 August – Jessie J.  
Costs £37 - £43
Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher
01372 47 00 47
sandown.ticketing@thejockeyclub.co.uk

London FolkFest
Over 30 Acts will perform during this three day festival. Not only will there be great music, there will also be panels, seminars and workshops. Panels will be lead by industry professionals sharing insider tips. Headliners include Brother and Bones, Luke Concannon and Alessi’s Ark. See traditional, acoustic folk-based music whilst learning about music and the industry at this decade-old festival.
19-22 July
Costs £15 – 50
77 Bedford hill, Balham, London SW12 9RHD
(0)20 8682 8959

BT River of Music
The BT River of Music will be showcasing music from around the world with six stages, each representing a different area of the globe. You can hear music from the Congo at the Africa stage or the sounds of Europe in Trafalgar Square. Highlights include Gong Linna of China who will be playing on the Asia stage, conveniently located in Battersea Park.
21 – 22 July; doors open at 11:30 am - 9pm
Cost £3
Along the River Thames
www.btriverofmusic.com/

Abbeyfest
Abbeyfest is a 50 day long festival with theatre, comedy, music and much more. There will be live jazz on Thursdays and blues on Sundays – a rarity as most music festivals don’t showcase jazz and blues. The likes of Steven Van-Deller, Damien Flood, and many other artists will come together to bring a comprehensive and entertaining array of soulful music.
6 July – 27 Aug
Ticket prices vary
020 8542 5511
www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk/abbeyfest/index.htm