By Annie McGuinness
Listen Up: The HHMF is an annual, ten-day festival in celebration of the art of music. It is a not-for-profit event for the local community and beyond. This year it runs from Friday 10th to Sunday 19th October in well-known venues arouånd Herne Hill. Over the ten days, there are 18 different events, comprising 25 different acts with dozens of talented artists. Some are solo performances; some singer-songwriters, some duos; not a few quartets; big bands and rock bands – and up to full-blown choirs and a sinfonietta.
The musical genres comprising the events cross a very diverse range of music – from Jazz jam, old time jazz and blues; vocal harmonies; choral evensong; gipsy tango; a Swing-Band performance preceded by Swing dance lessons; rock n roll; spoken word, poetry, spiritual – and more! In addition, there is a unique event – ‘Music for Housing’, in support of the Save Cressingham Gardens and Save Dorchester Court housing campaigns in association with The Cost of Living Crisis Concerts, to help support these local communities. Another unusual event is the Quantum Gong Bath Meditation (no water involved, just immersive sound) for a unique, uplifting experience.
There is a medley of broad-based musical talent that will appeal to all age groups’ interests and pockets. The timing of the events, across the weekends and weekdays should allow those of all ages and abilities to enjoy events that attract them. For younger audiences there are events that will appeal – Whippersnappers will offer interactive and participative songs; storytelling; drumming and a disco. And there’s ‘The Last of the Boggarts’ – a junior school musical featuring will feature quirky creatures called Boggarts. Kids just love them.
The costs of the tickets varies from events which are free, to affordable ticket prices, many with concessions. Tickets are of course, available via the website https://www.hernehillfestival.org/programme/2025 or scan the QR code in the flyer here. Tickets may also be purchased at the events; do check the festival website for full details!
So come along and listen up … something for everyone!