Memorial concert for Matthew

A special commemorative concert will be staged as part of Budleigh Music Festival in memory of Matthew Upham.

Matthew, who was a long-term friend and supporter of the Festival, tragically drowned after entering the sea on Christmas Day 2025. Festival organisers have added an additional date, on Thursday, June 25 to stage a concert in his memory.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the RNLI, in recognition of the vital work they do in our seaside communities.

A group of distinguished artists, each of whom shared a personal connection with Matthew, will perform a programme inspired by some of his favourite music. The concert features an impressive line-up of musicians, including soprano Sky Ingram, saxophonist Huw Wiggin, Emmy award-winning composer and pianist Mark Chait and a trio from the Rebecca Smith orchestra.

It promises an eclectic evening of music, where the Palm Court nostalgia of Ivor Novello and Irving Berlin meets operatic favourites such as Puccini’s O mio babbino caro and Dvořák’s Song to the Moon, with popular works by Debussy, Purcell, Bernstein and the minimalist Arvo Pärt.

Kate Somerby, chair of Budleigh Music Festival said: “Our town was deeply affected by the tragic events of Christmas Day 2025 when two men perished at sea. The Festival itself lost a dear friend in Matthew Upham, a patron of the arts, generous host, passionate music lover and ardent Festival supporter.

“To honour Matthew’s memory and acknowledge the loss of both men, we have partnered with the RNLI to add a fundraising concert to open this year’s festival. A mixture of celebratory and reflective music, the concert features some remarkable musicians, from classical saxophone to opera. This will be an inspiring evening of music to lift hearts, help us to raise money for Lifeboats and support the courageous work they undertake for seaside communities such as ours.”

Kate added: “As a longstanding and enthusiastic supporter of Budleigh Music Festival, Matthew was a familiar and valued presence, and this event reflects the deep affection in which he is held by the Festival community. It will be a very special evening and we are pleased to be able to support the vital work of the RNLI through our ticket sales.”

Budleigh Music Festival takes place from Thursday, June 25 until Saturday, July 4. Its programme offers a rich celebration of four centuries of music, from early classical masterpieces through to contemporary greats. Tickets are now on general sale.

For more details, visit www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk