Last of The Hackney Proms, after 11 glorious years

The Hackney Proms is going out with a blast this Sunday, when one final concert will mark the end of 11 years of family friendly classical music gigs.

The registered charity was set up in 2005 to bring classical events with a focus on authentically performed baroque music to a wider audience in a family-friendly atmosphere at affordable ticket prices, and they have staged 26 concerts to date.

Paul Julian, chair of the group said the trustees made the decision to retire for three reasons.

“Our charity is run entirely by volunteers and the work involved in putting on a concert is enormous and, despite our best efforts, we are unable to identify any natural successors,” he explained.

“Secondly, having succeeded in keeping ticket prices affordable over twelve years, costs continue to rise and we don’t have the resources to make fundraising an ongoing essential duty.

“Thirdly, when we first envisaged the concept of family friendly accessible Sunday morning concerts in Hackney, there was lot less music being performed in the borough.

“Things have changed for the better and our exciting range of concerts, enthusiastically received, have contributed to Hackney’s musical life.

“We therefore believe Hackney Proms has succeeded in its aims and can retire with honour.”

The London Klezmer Quartet will be performing Springtime in Stoke Newington Town Hall in Church Street at 11am on Sunday March 6.

See www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/218384 for tickets.