The first of the Brenchley Gardens free bandstand concerts was a huge success. The Jon Hamilton Big Band entertained a large appreciative crowd with great music in the warm Sunday afternoon sunshine.
An idyllic Sunday afternoon attracted a diverse audience, who relaxed in deckchairs lapping up the music with people strolling through Brenchley Gardens also stopping to enjoy the music.
This was the first of five bandstand concerts funded by Maidstone Borough Council, through the European Regional Development Fund, Welcome Back Fund.
Coming up this Saturday 11 September is the first of two Saturday concerts also being held at the bandstand, starting at 1pm. Offering an eclectic mix of live music from local bands and performers, offering everything from indie and folk to blues and acoustic. The second of these is Saturday 18 September.
The next Sunday afternoon concert begins at 3pm on 12 September and will feature the Invicta Jazz Orchestra. They have been a popular contributor to past bandstand concerts and will be providing a lively performance.
Cllr Margaret Rose went along to the concert, she said: “We were delighted with the first of these wonderful concerts in Brenchley Gardens on Sunday, the music from The Jon Hamilton Big Band and their two excellent vocalists was outstanding.
“We all had a highly enjoyable afternoon, the sun was shining and the music hit the top note. Thanks to all who played and sang and thank you to MBC who organised this wonderful afternoon of music.”
Leader of Maidstone Borough Council Cllr David Burton also enjoyed the afternoon entertainment, he said: “It was an excellent afternoon. We sat on a bench in the gardens and thoroughly enjoyed the music and the atmosphere. Well done to all those involved. Please spread the word to your friends who may not be aware of these free events.”
While the weather is not guaranteed, the quality of the music is. All the concerts are free to attend so why not spend a relaxed afternoon in one of the most attractive open spaces in Maidstone. Remember to bring a fold up chair in case all the deck chairs are full.
For more information on all local events see the Visit Maidstone website: https://www.visitmaidstone.com/whats-on