Homecoming recital to open season
The Wigan Music Society will begin its 2026–27 programme with a special homecoming recital by one of the town’s most distinguished musicians. Nicholas Rimmer, originally from Shevington Moor and now based in Germany, is scheduled to perform at 5pm on Saturday 26 September at Trinity United Reformed Church, Milton Grove.
Programme of landmark works
The one‑off recital will feature a trio of substantial keyboard works often regarded as pillars of the repertoire: J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations, Franz Liszt’s Piano Sonata in B minor and Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. There will be an interval after each piece, allowing patrons to join for the later items if they are unable to attend the earlier start time.
Access, pricing and fundraising
Admission to the recital is free, though donations will be invited at the end to support the music society’s funds. Beyond the opening concert, the society has confirmed the remainder of its season and the ticketing arrangements. Standard tickets are priced at £10 for members and patrons and £15 for guests. A group ticket for five or more has been introduced at £12 per person. The society is also offering a 15% discount when all five standard concerts are purchased before the opening concert on 24 October.
- Free entry to the Rimmer recital with donations welcomed.
- Standard concert price: £10 (members) / £15 (guests).
- Group rate: £12 per person for parties of five or more.
Full season at a glance
Organisers have published dates and featured artists for the 2026–27 season. The line‑up includes local singers, rising students and instrumental recitals that mix classical and jazz influences.
| Date | Start | Event / Artists |
|---|---|---|
| 26 Sep | 5pm | Nicholas Rimmer — Bach, Liszt, Mussorgsky |
| 24 Oct | 7.30pm | "A Night at the Opera" — Lucy Farrimond (soprano), Robert Forrest (tenor), Tim Kennedy (piano) |
| 30 Jan | 3pm | Junior Royal Northern College of Music |
| 20 Mar | 7.30pm | Heather Gordon‑Redfearn (clarinet), Eileen Guppy (piano) — classical and jazz‑inspired works |
| 1 May | 7.30pm | Jessica Burroughs (’cello), Benjamin Powell (piano) |
| 5 Jun | 7.30pm | Piano recital — Lewis Kingsley Peart |
Local context and consequences
Rimmer’s return underlines the role of community promoters and small venues in sustaining classical music within the borough. The choice of Trinity United Reformed Church continues a trend in Wigan and neighbouring towns where churches and community halls act as cultural hubs, enabling high‑calibre visiting artists to present demanding recitals in an intimate setting. Ticket pricing and the introduction of group rates and early‑purchase discounts indicate an effort by the society to broaden access and boost advance sales ahead of each event.
Tea, coffee, wine and juices will be available at each concert for a modest donation, providing both hospitality and a small additional income stream for the society. Tickets are available from the society’s website.
