MIDWEEK COLUMN WEDNESDAY 9 SEPTEMBER
previews, articles, reviews, interviews, and recommendations with Steve Cooke
MIDWEEK COLUMN WEDNESDAY 9 SEPTEMBER 2026
Previews: An Audience with Philippa Gregory, Heritage Open Days: Champness Hall Trust plus A Musical Afternoon - A Concert of Thanks
Review: Two Virtuosos at TLC
Two Virtuosos at TLC
Review by Dr Joe Dawson
This enlightening Toad Lane Concert at St Mary in the Baum was the 1,200th since taking over from Rochdale council in 2001.
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Deep Reed Duo, founded in the UK in 2023, brings together two virtuosos: bass clarinettist Yanke Dai and pianist Chichi Li. They are committed to bringing the lesser-known bass clarinet repertoire to wider audiences, while also developing new arrangements and cross-cultural programmes. They have performed at several UK and US venues and festivals.
Yanke Dai is now taking a PhD in performance at the University of Sheffield following postgraduate studies at the RNCM. He has performed internationally, appearing at festivals and concert venues in the UK, China and the US. He is a particularly devoted ambassador for his instrument and promotes and champions its underrepresented repertoire to new audiences and demonstrates its distinctive lyrical, dramatic and virtuosic qualities.
Chichi Li (Shiqi Li) gained her Master’s in Accompaniment at the RNCM with Distinction in 2025, having performed in major venues and collaborated with eminent musicians in masterclasses and coaching sessions. Chichi is an acclaimed solo pianist and is currently an External Accompanist at the RNCM and the University of Sheffield for recitals and assessments.
Their wonderfully played ‘Musical Journey of the Bass Clarinet’ took us through a fascinating range of music written or arranged for it. Although it does have some memorable solo moments in works for orchestra and wind band, like other essential but oft-unnoticed instruments such as viola, double bass, piccolo or tuba, it can be regarded as always, a bridesmaid and never a bride.
However, Mercadante’s Solo for Bass Clarinet from Emma d’Antiochia (1834) was one of its first uses in an expressive solo; eventually it achieved concert hall status with Friedrich Diethe’s Romanze for Bass Clarinet and Piano (1899). It clearly earned a solo place with Schoeck’s challenging Sonata (1927) and in a transcription of Hindemith’s Sonata for Bassoon and Piano (1938). More endorsement came with Eugène Bozza’s Ballade (1939) and in Jules Semler-Collery’s colourful and agile Légende et Divertissement (1953).
Yanke’s splendid playing and engaging presentation and information, partnered superbly by Chichi Li made an overwhelming case for more consideration of the bass clarinet as a compelling and expressive chamber music instrument.
Performances of this calibre will certainly raise its profile and allow us all to enjoy its moments in the limelight, proudly holding aloft the bride’s discarded bouquet.
The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the Grade 1 listed church of St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ/1AP. Entrance fee is £6. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.
An Audience with Philippa Gregory
Preview by Steve Cooke
An opportunity to join Philippa Gregory, as she takes you on a journey through the history you thought you knew. In her new novel, Royal Witch, Philippa brings to life the glittering and treacherous court of Henry V. The story explores the fascinating (and little known) life of Eleanor Cobham, who was England’s first and only convicted royal witch.
Throughout the evening, Philippa will delve into the characters and histories that inspired Royal Witch, illuminating how ambition, sorcery and treason intertwined in one woman’s desperate bid for power. Expect surprising insights, rich period detail and a fascinating exploration of the forgotten women of history.
It promises to be an evening of entertaining historical insight and unforgettable storytelling.
Philippa Gregory is a historian and novelist renowned for combining rich research with powerful storytelling. Through her writing, she reveals the women history tried to forget – and whose stories are more relevant today than ever. Her novels have sold millions of copies worldwide and been adapted for stage, television and film.
In 2023 she published her critically acclaimed non-fiction book Normal Women, a new social history of women in England for 900 years. It has also been adapted as a podcast, teen edition and children's edition. In 2026, Boleyn Traitor won Fiction Book of the Year at the British Book Awards.
Philippa Gregory was awarded a CBE for services to literature and charity in 2021.
Tickets £20.20 (inc. £1.20 cmsn) - £37.20 (inc. £1.20 cmsn)
To book visit https://www.homemcr.org/spektrix/ChooseSeats?EventInstanceId=1943201ADKHQBVDSSQHNRLHJJBNBTDCHV
19:00 on Friday 30 October in Theatre 1, HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester M15 4FN
Heritage Open Days: Champness Hall Trust
Preview by Steve Cooke
Champness Hall is one of Rochdale’s most remarkable hidden treasures, and Heritage Week is the perfect time to step inside and experience it for yourself. Built in 1925, this stunning Art Deco landmark has stood at the heart of the town for over a century, yet many people walk past without ever realising the history, ambition, and community spirit held within its walls.
A visit during Heritage Week offers the chance to explore spaces rarely seen by the public, uncover stories of the building’s origins, and learn about the people who shaped its past. From its early days as a vibrant social and cultural venue to its modern role supporting charities, wellbeing groups, and community organisations, Champness Hall has always been a place where Rochdale comes together.
Today, the Trust is working hard to restore and revitalise the building for future generations. Guided tours will give you a behind‑the‑scenes look at ongoing restoration projects, the craftsmanship that has survived a century, and the exciting plans that will ensure Champness Hall continues to serve the community for decades to come.
Whether you love local history, enjoy exploring heritage architecture, or simply want to discover something new in your town, Champness Hall offers a warm welcome and a fascinating journey through time. Heritage Week is your chance to see the building in a new light, celebrate its legacy, and be part of its future.
10:00 on Monday, 14 September at 1 Champness Hall , Drake Street, OL16 1PB
A Musical Afternoon - A Concert of Thanks
Preview by Steve Cooke
Join Flat Pack Music for a special afternoon of operatic and musical theatre highlights in support of Rochdale Unitarian Church.
You can expect a varied programme featuring much-loved favourites including O mio babbino caro, Nessun dorma, music from Les Misérables and Oklahoma! and many more.
In 2025, the church generously welcomed Flat Pack Music and provided a home for the rehearsals for Don Giovanni. Its kindness and support played an important part in bringing the production to life, and this concert is Flat Pack Music’s opportunity to say thank you and give something back.
All proceeds will help support the church and its continuing place within the local community. Whether you are a regular concertgoer, a supporter of Flat Pack Music, part of the church community or simply looking for an enjoyable afternoon of live music, you will be made very welcome.
“Come along, enjoy some fantastic music and join us in supporting those who have so generously supported us.”
Price from £9.00
Saturday 26 September, 2.30pm, Clover Street Unitarians, Rochdale, Greater Manchester, OL12 6TP
RECOMMENDED
Wednesday, 9 September 2026
Toad Lane Concerts - Rochdale's Weekly Music at Lunchtime
This week we have - Anne Butterworth soprano, Stephen Taylor baritone Elaine Marsden piano
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
St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane/St Mary's Gate, Rochdale OL16 1DZ
Doors open 12noon, concert starts 12.30pm - 1.30pm
Thursday, 10 September 2026
Bookstart Baby - Heywood Library
Every Thursday during term time. Join Amy and Bookstart Bear for a fun session, especially for babies up to 15 months and their parents or carers.
Free
Booking required: please book a ticket for every child who is to attend. Accompanying adults will not need a ticket. See available sessions and book tickets through Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/rochdale-borough-libraries-10695506106
When you and your child come along to their first session of Bookstart Baby, they will receive their very own Bookstart passport for you to get stamped each time they come along to a session. For every 6 stamps they get in their passport, they'll receive a certificate.
Contact: heywood.library@rochdale.gov.uk
11am - 11.30am
Heywood Library, LCpl Stephen Shaw MC Way, Heywood OL10 1LW
Thursday, 10 September 2026
Reading group - Castleton Library and Community Centre
Read, share and discuss a range of fiction and non-fiction in our reading group.
2nd Thursday of every month. Discover new authors and discuss different genres of books with other keen readers at our free, friendly and informal monthly meetings.
Free
For adults.
No booking required you can just turn up.
Contact: castleton.library@rochdale.gov.uk
11am - 12pm
Location: Castleton Library, 604 Manchester Road, Rochdale OL11 3AF
Thursday, 10 September 2026
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
Visit: https://www.fireground.org.uk/ Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 10am - 4pm
Friday, 11 September 2026
Reading Group - Heywood Library
Second Friday of every month. Discover new authors and discuss books with other readers in this friendly group. Books will be loaned from the library.
Free
For adults.
Booking required: places are limited, please book by emailing heywood.library@rochdale.gov.uk.
Refreshments will be provided.
10am - 11am
Heywood Library, LCpl Stephen Shaw MC Way, Heywood OL10 1LW
Friday, 11 September 2026
Bookstart Baby - Rochdale Central Library
Free
Every Friday during term time. Join Amy and Bookstart Bear for a fun session of wonderful rhymes, songs and stories specially for babies up to 15 months and their parent or carer.
Booking required: please book a ticket for every baby who is to attend. Accompanying adults will not need a ticket. See available sessions and book tickets through Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/rochdale-borough-libraries-10695506106
You'll receive a welcome pack with your baby's Bookstart passport for you to get stamped each time they come along to a session or visit the library. For every 6 stamps they get in their passport, they'll receive a certificate.
Contact: library.service@rochdale.gov.uk
11am - 11.30am
Rochdale Central Library, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU
Saturday, 12 September 2026
Reading Group - Littleborough Library
Our group meets once a month on the second Saturday to discuss various authors, genres and themes. If you want to join us, there is no need to book, just turn up.
Free
No need to book, you can just come along.
10.30am - 11.30am
Littleborough Library, Hare Hill Park, Littleborough OL15 9HE
Saturday, 12 September 2026
A Heritage Photo walk, with Ellie Waters
The heritage photo walk will explore Rochdale's town centres including much loved landmarks such as Rochdale Town Hall. Through photography you will be invited to connect with the past through capturing images of the present and sharing stories together during the walk.
Ellie Waters is a documentary photographer from Rochdale, with a passion for visual storytelling. This event is part of the Broadfield Park Slopes Project, which is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund
Free / Pay What You Want
11am-1pm
Rochdale Town Hall
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