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Summer of Play at The Firs

Come on a musical journey with us this summer by celebrating Elgar's Wand of Youth Suite, we encourage you to dance, move and play!

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

It's time to explore, move and make-believe this summer!

Are you ready to be inspired by Elgar's Wand of Youth Suite? Did you know it was written when Elgar was a child and completed as an adult?

Join us for an outdoor summer of play at The Firs, full of imagination, wonder and make believe.

Suite No. 1, Op. 1a: IV. Sun Dance - Learn the weather waltz where you can twirl, leap and dance in whatever the weather.

Suite No. 1, Op. 1a: V. Fairy Pipers - Search the orchard and open the fairy doors to meet Elgar’s family.

Suite No. 1, Op. 1a: VII. Fairies and Giants - Enter the imaginary world of fairies and giants, sit in the giants’ chair and create your own small world for a fairy.

Suite No. 2, Op. 1b: III. Moths and Butterflies - Discover more about British moths and butterflies, matching their wing patterns.

Suite No. 2, Op. 1b: V. The Tame Bear - Bring along your favourite teddy and enjoy creating a teddy bears picnic in the idyllic cottage garden.

Suite No. 2, Op. 1b. VI. Wild Bears - Join the Wild Bears Band, where you will be the musician. Create music from everyday objects and our nature-based instruments to create your own rhythm.

With more to explore this Summer of Play, visit The Firs.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Yes

Accessibility

Our visitor centre and gardens are fully accessible. The ground floor of Elgar's Birthplace Cottage is accessible but there is a narrow staircase up to the first floor.

Upcoming events

A Talk on Elgar’s Wand of Youth: Stories Behind the Suite by Richard Westwood-Brookes 

Join historian Richard Westwood-Brookes for a captivating 30-minute talk exploring the childhood memories, playful themes, and personal meaning behind Elgar’s magical Wand of Youth Suite. A delightful journey into music and imagination.

Event summary

on
31 Aug 2025
at
12:00 to 12:30
+ 1 other date or time

Uncover the Unexpected Story of Edward Elgar through a talk with Richard Westwood-Brookes 

Join us for a talk by Elgar expert Richard Westwood-Brookes, a speaker and author of numerous books on Elgar. This is a unique opportunity to explore Elgar’s world through the lens of someone who has dedicated years to studying his life and works..

Event summary

on
8 Sep to 13 Oct 2025
at
12:00 to 12:30
+ 5 other dates or times

Heritage Open Days at The Firs - Elgar's Birthplace 

Enjoy free entry to The Firs – Elgar’s Birthplace this Heritage Open Days!

Event summary

on
12 Sep to 15 Sep 2025
at
10:00 to 17:00
+ 3 other dates or times

An Audience with Corinne 

Come and enjoy a heartfelt performance by cellist Corinne Frost, featuring enchanting pieces by British composers. Corinne loves connecting through music—she’s happy to take requests, and might even create a unique sound portrait inspired by you.

Event summary

on
13 Sep to 15 Nov 2025
at
11:30 to 12:15
+ 2 other dates or times