Following sold-out shows with Dave Pegg of Fairport Convention and Countdown legend Richard Digance, Anthony John Clarke returns to the Music Room on Saturday 13th September with another special guest: Colum Sands.
And to mark the first show of the new season Liverpool Acoustic supporters can enjoy 20% off the price of any ticket using the code AJC20 at checkout.
Described by Fairport Convention as a ‘national treasure’, Anthony John Clarke is a beloved figure in the UK folk music scene, known for his poignant songwriting and razor-sharp wit. Originally from Belfast, Clarke has spent over three decades captivating audiences with songs like The Broken Years and The Only Life Gloria Knows. His performances blend heartfelt storytelling with humorous reflections on everyday life—from karaoke nights and camping mishaps to nuns and grandchildren.
Whether he’s making you laugh or stirring deep emotion, Clarke’s shows are a masterclass in musical charm and lyrical brilliance. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the most entertaining and endearing acts on the circuit.
As a member of the renowned Sands Family from County Down, Colum Sands has performed in over thirty countries. His songs, often filled with humour and keen observations of life, have earned international appeal. A skilled broadcaster, Sands has presented BBC Radio Ulster’s Folk Club, BBC Radio 2 programmes, and RTÉ’s Rootin’ About.
Since releasing his first album in 1981, Sands has become a respected songwriter, with his songs covered by artists like Billy Connolly and Maddy Prior. With ten albums to his name, he continues to build a reputation for powerful songs that connect people and generations.
This is the only 2025 performance featuring Clarke and Sands together – an evening of great music and laughter from two artists who are perfectly in tune with their material, their audience, and each other.
Event Details:
- Who: Anthony John Clarke and Colum Sands
- When: Saturday 13th September 2025
- Where: Music Room, Sugnall Street
- Tickets: £18 | £15 | £13 from Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
- 20% discount using code AJC20
An electrifying evening of global rhythms awaits as Latin American bands Kumbia Boruka and Chapulines come together for a powerful live performance at Future Yard.Kumbia Boruka – an international group based in Lyon, France – bring a high-energy fusion of classic Mexican cumbia, reggae, dub and tropical sounds. Founded by Hernán Cortés, a former collaborator of the legendary Celso Piña, the band celebrates cultural heritage with a modern twist. With dynamic brass sections, driving percussion and compelling lyrics, their music is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Experience an unforgettable evening of live music as two vibrant Latin American bands take to the stage for La Feria 2025. Hosted at the British Music Experience, Grupo Luma and Seba Barrientos Trío will share the stage in a concert that unites powerful traditions with bold contemporary expression. Expect rich musical traditions, thought-provoking storytelling, and a pulsating rhythm that moves both body and soul.Grupo Luma, founded by Chilean brothers Francisco and Oscar Carrasco, is celebrated for their evocative performances that showcase both original works and classics drawn from across Latin America.
Hailing from the port of Valparaíso, Chile, this award-winning ensemble is renowned for its bold, genre-defying approach to world music and jazz. Led by guitarist and composer Antonio Monasterio, the group crafts immersive soundscapes that blend intricate rhythms, expressive timbres and global musical traditions, creating music that is both boundary-pushing and emotionally resonant.
This special concert also celebrates a growing connection between UNESCO Cities of Music Valparaíso and Liverpool, with an opening performance by Chilean-Liverpudlian singer-songwriter Saranne Carrasco-Brennan.
The Druids Irish Folk Band are back with another master show, featuring captivating new blends of traditional Irish folk music and storytelling. This type of performance highlights the band’s rich musical heritage, weaving together timeless Irish ballad songs with the powerful narratives that have been passed down through generations.
The combination of music and stories would give audiences a deep dive into Ireland’s cultural history, offering a mix of lively jigs, heartfelt ballads and tales that reflect the country’s folklore, struggles, and triumphs. Irish folk bands often use this format to connect with their audiences on a more emotional level, while also providing an immersive, entertaining experience.
Sunday 8 March 2026 2:30pm
Programme to include: Beethoven Symphony No.6, ‘Pastoral’: Movement 1 Dai Wei The Dancing Moonlight Vaughan Williams The Wasps, Overture Music from Brave
Lucy Drever presenter Charlotte Corderoy conductor Kate Labno BSL Interpreter
Muddy puddles, creepy crawlies, and maybe even a few furry friends – follow the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra as they set off on a magical, musical nature trail. Whether it’s the bottom of the garden, or the woods round the corner, there’s always something to discover when you step into nature, and today our Orchestra brings the outdoors inside with a spectacular showcase of works inspired by the countryside. So put on your wellies, and let’s have an adventure!
Family concerts are designed for 5-10 year olds, but all the family are welcome!
*Please note that BSL Interpretation will be provided at this performance – please contact our Box Office on 0151 709 3789 to book suitable seats.
Saturday 20 December, 11.30am & 2.30pm
Sunday 21 December, 2.30pm
Alasdair Malloy presenterEllie Slorach conductorLiverpool Philharmonic Children’s ChoirsKate Labno BSL Interpreter*
There’s only a few sleeps to go until the big day, but Santa Claus is getting ready to throw his little elves an absolute cracker of a Christmas party – and of course you’re invited! With the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and our Children’s Choirs providing a sparkling soundtrack, get ready for seasonal singalongs, plenty of dancing, and fun and games galore in this family festive extravaganza. RSVP as soon as you can – Santa can’t wait to see you there!
Family concerts are designed for 5-10 year olds, but all the family are welcome!
*Please note that BSL Interpretation will be provided at the 2.30pm performance on Saturday 20 December.
Sunday 26 October 2025 2:30pm
Programme to include: ‘This is Halloween’ from The Nightmare Before Christmas‘Remember Me’ from CocoTheme from The Addams FamilySaint-Saëns Danse Macabre Mussorgsky The Gnome
Alasdair Malloy presenterMatthew Lynch conductor
Witches, vampires, ghosts and ghouls – they’re all here at the Hall this Halloween! In this fa-boo-lous family concert, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra take on the spooky and the spine-chilling, performing haunting music from your favourite films and television, as well as creepy classics by Mussorgsky, Saint-Saëns, Leroy Anderson and more. So come along in your most devilish disguise and settle in for a journey of musical mystery – it’s guaranteed to give you goosebumps…
Family concerts are designed for 5-10 year olds, but all the family are welcome!
Saturday 21 February, 1pm & 2.45pm
Join presenter Claire Henry and musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra as they take you on a journey through an enchanted forest. Claire might need your help casting some spells along the way!
Tickets for under-6 months are free but must be booked in advance with an adult ticket.
Wednesday 12 November, 11am, 1pm & 2.45pm
Help astronaut Claire Henry and musicians from the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra to power the rocket and blast off into space! We’ve lined up a concert full of exciting space music and our audience will be very busy helping to make the launch a success.
Tickets for under-6 months are free but must be booked in advance with an adult ticket.
