MIDWEEK COLUMN WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER 2025
- STEVE COOKE AATA
- 1 day ago
- 9 min read
previews, reviews, interviews, and recommendations with Steve Cooke
MIDWEEK COLUMN WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER 2025
Percussion and Bassoon Concert at Rochdale Parish Church
Preview by Steve Cooke
The final autumn lunchtime concert at Rochdale Parish church will feature Dan Nolan (Percussion) and Lauren Martin (Bassoon), Music graduates of the University of Manchester.
Dan is a percussionist and composer based in Manchester. He studied at the university of Manchester where he gained an undergraduate degree in music and masters in instrumental composition. He freelances around the northwest including Slaithwaite Philharmonic and Grimethorpe Collery Band and beyond with a range of ensembles as well as internationally at the Opera de Bauge festival. He has a particular interest in new music and improvisation and loves collaborating with composers and other artists to create new works. Outside of performing Dan works as a percussion tutor for Rochdale Music Service.
Lauren is Bassoonist, researcher, and teacher based in Manchester. After completing her undergraduate and masters at the University of Manchester, she studied performance in Los Angeles at the California institute of the arts. She is currently studying for PhD in contemporary Bassoon performance at Royal Holloway. She specialises in new music and improvisation and is currently working on a commissioning project as part of PhD research. She freelances across the country with a range of ensembles, including Paraorchestra where she has performed at the BBC proms, Bradford City of Culture, and the Southbank Centre. Beyond her performance work, Lauren is a teacher at Trafford Music Service where she teaches woodwind and guitar.
The Programme will include:
Evelyn Glennie - Little prayer
Joseph Fiala - duo concertante movement 1
John Steinmetz - Lament
Arr. Nolan - Three English folk songs
Gabriel Faure - Pavanne
Gene Koshinski - Get it!
Pay on door £6.00 entry including refreshments available from 11.30am
Concert commences at 12 noon
Saturday 1 November 2025
Rochdale Parish Church of St Chad, Sparrow Hill, Rochdale OL16 1AF
[On top of the hill overlooking Rochdale Town Centre, St Chad's was the mother church of the ancient parish of Rochdale and was founded before 1170, possibly on an Anglo-Saxon site. Much of the current building is the result of late Victorian restoration. It’s stunning architecture provides the perfect backdrop to experience music of the highest quality.]
Elizabeth White’s Retrospective Exhibition at Littleborough Coach House
Preview by Steve Cooke
Elizabeth White is a well-known and much admired artist living and working in the area, who is motivated by the landscape and history of the Pennine district to the east of Rochdale.
Her beautiful paintings are full of colour, inspired by her love of the skies and the moods created by the ever changing light.
She is holding a Retrospective Exhibition at Littleborough Coach House from the 8th November to the 7th December, open from 11 a.m., to 3 p.m.
The exhibition will document her artistic journey showing her paintings not only from the Pennines but also from Greece, Spain and New York in various mediums from watercolour to acrylic and mixed media.
Elizabeth told me “I am really excited by this exhibition and am looking forward to seeing my work that will provoke so many memories of places and people.”
The preview is on Saturday 8th November from 1-3.
Littleborough Coach House, Lodge Street, Littleborough OL15 9AE
Tel: 01706 378481
Magic moments and serendipity at TLC
Review by Dr Joe Dawson
Lewis Kingsley Peart, a Chetham’s School of Music alumnus and graduate of London's Trinity Laban Conservatoire, enjoyed his fourth annual visit to Rochdale as a busy working musician: both soloist and collaborator, he programmes a wide variety of music from the traditional classical canon, right through to jazz and the avant-garde. In March of this year Lewis played Beethoven's "Emperor" concerto with the Angel Orchestra, and in April he gave the world premiere of Stephen Montague's "Scherzo in the Vienna Woods" - a new work that Lewis had commissioned. Lewis’s career is developing both as recitalist and concerto soloist; his German debut will be in Cologne in May 2026.
With his engaging and confident introductions, he quickly establishes himself as a gifted guide to the world of the piano.
He opened with three of Schubert’s ‘Moment Musicaux’ or musical moments. As with several composers these types of miniatures aimed at the salon or home. Lewis brought out all the varied colours and moods with skilful technique and panache.
Better known for his large-scale works, Jean Sibelius, also experimented with this genre: Impromptu, ‘The Spruce,’ Jouer de harpe, and Rêverie, were delightful pearls in a variety of moods. However, Scherzino, Op. 58 No. 2, proved to be a remarkable gem quite unlike his usual styles. Its rhythmic vitality and adventurous harmonies shot us into twentieth century modernism - that is what makes the serendipity of recitals like this so rewarding.
Finally, Edvard Grieg called his miniatures Lyric Pieces and again produced them throughout his life – some one hundred in all, published in ten volumes, from 1867 to 1901. Two examples were the delicate characteristic Little Bird to the triumphant Wedding Day at Troldhaugen. This latter mini masterwork never fails to excite, and the audience became revelling villagers for a few moments. What next, Lewis? Do come again.
The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts are every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the Grade 1 listed church of St Mary in the Baum, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. Entrance fee is £6 cash. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.
The Monastery Series with Ethan Loch
Preview by Steve Cooke
Manchester Camerata are welcoming pianist Ethan Loch back for his third appearance with Manchester Camerata at The Great Nave of The Monastery, Manchester.
As well as performing a solo piano piece, Ethan joins Camerata’s wind players in Mozart’s Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-flat major, K.452, a work Mozart himself called “the best thing I have written in my life”.
This piece gives every instrument a chance to shine, with piano, oboe, clarinet, horn and bassoon sharing the spotlight equally. At the end of the piece, Mozart replaces the usual single-instrument cadenza with one that involves all five musicians, highlighting the collective rather than the individual. First performed in 1784 with Mozart at the piano, the Quintet still feels fresh today, spirited, inventive, and full of life.
He will also lead the wind players in a rare improvisation, an opportunity to hear something entirely unique created in the moment.
Programme
Ethan Loch Sounds of the Sea
2nd movement: Family of Fishes
3rd movement: the Coral Reef
Improvisation on a theme of Mozart
Mozart Piano Quintet
Performed by
Ethan Loch Piano
Rachael Clegg Oboe
Kath Lacey Clarinet
Ben Hudson Bassoon
Naomi Atherton Horn
Tickets
General Admission
£10.00
Student
£5.00
Gorton Resident
£3.00
£5 Ticket
£5.00
They want this concert to be as accessible to everyone as possible if you are unable to afford the General Admission ticket price, please take advantage of this offer which is done on an honesty basis.
Free Essential Companion tickets are for those that require additional support for disability-related needs.
Wed 19 November 2025, 2:30pm.
The Monastery Manchester, Gorton Lane, Manchester M12 5WF
The Monastery is a ten-minute drive from Manchester City Centre and there is a free, on-site car park with ample space. You can also get there by train or bus from Manchester Piccadilly.
Rochdale Town Hall Ghost Tour is not for the faint hearted!
Preview by Steve Cooke
An opportunity to explore hidden corners and eerie chambers of Rochdale Town hall uncovering tales of the past and searching for signs of those who may never have left.
Dare you enter Rochdale Town Hall after dark? This November, experience a night of ghostly encounters, chilling stories and paranormal investigation at one of the North’s most atmospheric landmarks.
If you are brave enough you will ‘enjoy’ a live ghost hunt with professional equipment and you will also get delicious hot meal and drink to steady your nerves.
This ghost tour is designed for those over 18 years old only, to be a fun and immersive experience but may include elements intended to surprise or unsettle. If at any point you feel spooked or uneasy, trained first aiders will be on site, and a designated relaxation area will be available for your comfort.
All participation is at your own risk. They are not liable for any physical, emotional, or psychological distress, injury, or loss incurred during the tour. By attending, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own wellbeing and agree to release the organisers from any claims arising from your participation.
Tickets from £30
7pm - 10pm
Saturday, 1 November 2025
Rochdale Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ
RECOMMENDED
Wednesday 29 October 2025
Toad Lane Concerts - Rochdale's Weekly Music at Lunchtime
This week we have - John Powell baritone (Cambridge University & BBC Singers) Carol Kwater ALCM ARCO LRAM piano
The concert series has been held at St Mary’s since 2001 and was granted the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2020.
Running every Wednesday, Music at Lunchtime is a weekly live classical music concert series that has been going since the 1960s. The sessions were initially run at the old Rochdale Art Gallery by the local authority, but since May 2001 have been run by volunteer-enthusiasts and artistic director, Dr Joe Dawson.
£6
Phone: Dr Joe Dawson 01706 648872
Doors open 12noon, concert starts 12.30pm - 1.30pm
St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane/St Mary's Gate, Rochdale OL16 1DZ
Wednesday, 29 October 2025
\Flying the Flag for Libraries Workshop - Rochdale Central Library
Work with professional artists to co-design a bespoke flag that celebrates nature and the power of libraries.
Led by Cabasa CIC, you'll work with professional artists to co-design a bespoke flag that celebrates nature and the power of libraries. No experience needed, just bring your imagination.
For families.
Booking required: book your place for this event on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/flying-the-flag-for-green-libraries-tickets-1716379028879?aff=oddtdtcreator
Free
2pm - 4pm
Rochdale Central Library, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Visit Fireground Museum
Join us at Fireground this week to discover Greater Manchester's firefighting story.
Fire museum attractions are on show inside the museum including our collection of historic firefighting artefacts from the 18th century to present day, plus home-made refreshments in the new Fireground Café, and souvenirs from our fantastic new gift shop! We have a wide choice ranging from toddler to collector.
Under 4s Free, Children (aged 4-15) £6, Seniors £6, Students £6, Adults £8, Family (4 people) £24.
Phone: Fireground 01706 341219
Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 10am - 4pm
Fireground, Maclure Road, Rochdale OL11 1DN
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Strum and singalong - Langley Library
Come and join us for a fun, musical session and a chance to sing along with our Ukulele group.
For families with children aged 4 and over.
Booking required: instruments are limited so classes can only take a limited number, and you must book your place.
Free
1.30pm - 2.30pm
Langley Library, Windermere Road, Middleton M24 4LA
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Halloween Craft - Littleborough Library
This half term, drop in and make a Halloween-themed sun catcher to take home.
For families with children aged 3 and over. Adult supervision required.
No need to book, you can just come along.
Free
2pm - 3pm
Littleborough Library, Hare Hill Park, Littleborough OL15 9HE
Friday, 31 October 2025
The Phantom of the Opera (1925) with live organ
With a live organ and a seriously spooky setting, this may feel scarier than a standard screening.
Trade trick-or-treat for a night of gothic cinematic grandeur. On Halloween, Lon Chaney’s Phantom will rise on the big screen inside Rochdale Town Hall’s spellbinding Great Hall.
For adults.
The 1925 silent classic will be accompanied live on the Hall’s mighty J.J. Binns organ from 1913 – a nationally important instrument, widely regarded as one of Binns’ finest. Its 3,018 pipes and 53 speaking stops make this the perfect source of thunder, whispers, and heart-racing crescendos, all under the hands and feet of internationally acclaimed Scottish organist, Aaron Hawthorne.
Tickets from £8
Booking required: book tickets online through Your Trust: https://www.yourtrustrochdale.co.uk/whats-on/events/the-phantom-of-the-opera-1925-with-live-organ/
7.30pm - 10pm
Rochdale Town Hall, The Esplanade, Rochdale OL16 1AZ
Friday 31st October 2025
Ghost walk with Colin Meredith
My walk starts from The Baum on Toad lane at 8pm only £7.50 pp.
No need to book just turn up.
More info on 07774152620
The Baum, 33-37 Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL12 0N
Saturday, 1 November 2025
Board games and Lego Legends - Smallbridge Library
There's a variety of games and activities on offer for all ages and abilities.
1st Saturday of every month. Join us for some monthly family fun with our board games and Lego. Get creative or competitive, let’s play or build and start the month off right.
Board games and Lego will be provided. You can also bring in your own board games to play here.
For families with children aged 3 and over.
You can just turn up.
Free
11am - 12pm
Smallbridge Library, Stevenson Square, Rochdale OL12 9SA
Saturday, 1 November 2025
Frightful Fiesta Fun - Smallbridge Library
Join us for a spooktacular celebration full of colour, crafts, and chaos (the good kind).
As well as activity sheets, colouring pages, fun facts and stories to explore, there will be the following activities:
Make your own sugar mask
Hunt for hidden treasures
Smash the piñata
Play a lively round of bingo
Take home a themed party bag bursting with fun
For families with children aged 5–8. Children must be accompanied by an adult – but we promise grown-ups will enjoy the fiesta too.
Don't forget to wear black to match the Day of the Dead vibe.
Booking required: book your child's place on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/frightful-fiesta-fun-tickets-1664001185339?aff=oddtdtcreator
Free
1pm - 2pm
Smallbridge Library, Stevenson Square, Rochdale OL12 9SA
celebrating creative arts and artists - an oasis of positivity supporting individual and community wellbeing.
Comments