Samuel Coleridge-Taylor at 150

Immerse yourself in a powerful musical tribute to Croydon-born composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, 150 years after his birth. 

A pioneer who increasingly drew on his Sierra Leonean heritage in his music, Coleridge-Taylor’s legacy as a trailblazing musician who navigated the complexities of living as a Black artist within a White-dominated society lives on. 

This vibrant event features new music and performances from Tunde Jegede, whose unique approach draws on contemporary musical styles from both Europe and Africa, much like Coleridge-Taylor did. Violinist Braimah Kanneh-Mason brings fresh energy to Coleridge-Taylor’s Violin Concerto – one of the last pieces of music Coleridge-Taylor wrote before he died in 1912 – alongside soul-stirring performances of African Spiritual-inspired songs from the electrifying Croydon SDA Gospel Choir. 

With tickets from just £5, this accessible performance proudly celebrates Black identity and music in Croydon, through the lens of a composer who helped shape Croydon’s cultural personality and remains part of the borough’s DNA today. 

Presented by LMP and Croydon Council.