The Glasgow Barons Early Music Festival

Following the success of last year’s event, The Glasgow Barons are proud to announce the second Early Music Festival in Govan Old Parish Church, home to the historic Govan Stones. Curated by Paul MacAlindin (Executive Artistic Director) and Campbell Parker (General Manager), the festival will bring together a rich line-up of free lunchtime concerts, along with ticketed evening and late-night performances, all celebrating Scotland’s vibrant early music scene.

All performances take place in the stunning setting of Govan Old Parish Church apart from the Masterclass which will take place in the Govan and Linthouse Parish Church. Lunchtime concerts are free, with evening performances priced at just £1–£5, making it accessible for all.

Paul MacAlindin, Executive Artistic Director, The Glasgow Barons said: The return of a Scottish early music festival after some thirty years sees 800 years of music illuminate the magical Govan Stones in our beloved Govan Old Parish Church. We need to build on existing early music training in Scotland, which is why we're delighted to have the Marian Consort's Artistic Director, Rory McLeery coaching vocal ensembles The Hepburn IV and Iuchair, ahead of their performances this year. Mhairi Lawson gives a public vocal masterclass to young Scottish-based singers to awaken interest in the vast creative possibilities of early music, while shedding light on the fascinating art of preparation for the public. My favourite concert will be Steampunk Brass, where our old pals, The Wallace Collection, will dazzle and confound with brass instruments in various knobbly stages of their centuries-old evolution.

Bede Williams, Chair, The Glasgow Barons added: As Chairperson of The Glasgow Barons, I’m thrilled to see this year’s Early Music Festival bring together such an exceptional mix of talent. It’s especially meaningful to me to welcome performers I’ve had the privilege of working with — The Hepburn Four from St Andrews, where I teach, the brilliant Baroque violinist Ben Shute, and our long-time collaborators The Wallace Collection. This festival isn’t just about extraordinary music; it’s about building bridges between communities, generations, and traditions, and I’m proud to see those connections come alive in Govan.