Make Music Day takes place each year on 21 June – a global celebration of music making that brings communities together for a day of joy, creativity and connection. Each year our members show up and show out! Here’s a look back on some of the events that took place across the UK.
England
For the third year running, the Big Summer Wind Orchestra & Choir teamed up once again with Making Music to deliver an epic outdoor performance for Make Music Day. Over 100 musicians gathered in Regents Park, London, on one of the hottest days of the year to take part. Musicians of all abilities were invited to sing or play any wind band instrument, performing a wide-ranging repertoire – from pop and folk to opera songs and classical favourites.
What’s incredible is that these musicians never rehearse together in person – they learn their parts independently and come together on the day for one beautifully unified performance.
Wales
Wales celebrated Make Music Day in seven towns and cities across – the largest representation of Welsh involvement in the event to date, thanks to funding from Tŷ Cerdd. Performances took place in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Llandrindod Wells, Welshpool, Wrexham and Aberystwyth, featuring both Making Music groups and other community ensembles.
In Cardiff, we were delighted to welcome the Welsh National Opera at St David's Shopping Centre, alongside Barry Community Choir and a string quartet playing folk music with students from the RWCMD.
In Swansea, the One Heart Drummers, The Phoenix Choir of Wales, and C’est la vie! Community Choir performed in the city centre and indoor market.
Newport hosted The Priory Singers and Newport Philharmonic Choir at the Orangery, Tredegar House.
In Llandrindod Wells, the Knighton Silver Band and Llandrindod Silver Band performed together at the bandstand, while the Bracken Trust Singers also gave a performance attended by the mayor.
Aberystwyth’s Owain Glyndŵr Square featured sets by Machynlleth Wind Band, Pedwarawd Ensalada Quartet, and singer-songwriter Louise and the Feathers.
At Powis Castle in Welshpool, the Penybontfawr Male Voice Choir (performing mainly in Cymraeg), Porthywaen Silver Band, and Vivace shared pop tunes and global songs.
And at Erddig National Trust near Wrexham, five groups performed in the courtyard: Llay Welfare Band, Sirenian Singers, Cantorion Rhos, New Voices, and Mold Town Concert Band.
New Voices
Audiences responded with enthusiasm – stopping in markets, on streets, and in historic venues to enjoy the diverse music. Many were curious to learn more about Make Music Day and welcomed the idea of a dedicated day to celebrate music for all. As the event becomes more widely recognised in Wales, we hope even more groups will take part in future years to honour our heritage as the Land of Song.
Scotland
In Scotland, the We Make Music Libraries project returned with performances and workshops in Edinburgh libraries, including by our member Sangstream, who shared traditional Scottish songs as well as a few contemporary ones.
In Aberdeen, Granite City Chorus joined forces with barbershop friends Aurora Acapella and Ailsa Durden (clarsach and piano) for a free concert at Fountainhall Church at the Stocket.
Kirkintilloch Male Voice Choir sang in their local Regent Gardens Park, while in Glasgow, Visit West End transformed the streets around Byres Road into a vibrant live music venue.
Kirkintilloch Male Voice Choir
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland celebrated another fantastic Make Music Day in partnership with Linen Quarter BID, joining thousands across the UK in this global day of music-making. Local and international musicians performed across three outdoor venues – Grand Central Station, Ulster Hall, and the City Centre – showcasing the depth and diversity of Belfast’s music scene.
And finally…
From bandstands to libraries, heritage sites to train stations, this year’s Make Music Day brought people together through the universal language of music. Whether performing or pausing to listen, thousands across the UK experienced the magic of live music in public spaces.
We’re already looking ahead to Make Music Day 2026 – and we hope even more of our members will join us in making 21 June the biggest and most musical day of the year.
To stay up-to-date with all things Make Music Day related, visit makemusicday.co.uk
