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Summer of Play at The Firs

Come on a musical journey with us this Summer, discovering Elgar’s Wand of Youth.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

This year we will be celebrating The Wand of Youth, a piece of music started when Elgar was a child and finished in adulthood. Inspired by his childhood memories of growing up here. Come along, play, dance and listen to music and step into the footsteps of Elgar.

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 Bear - Join the Wild Bear 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

Event

Festival of Blossom at The Firs: Elgar's Birthplace 

Celebrate the Festival of Blossom at The Firs: Elgar's Birthplace this spring, online and onsite.

Event summary

on
3 May to 5 May 2025
at
10:00 to 16:30
+ 2 other dates or times
Event

An Audience with Corinne 

Listen to cellist Corinne Frost playing cello music by British composers including Elgar. Corinne will also take music requests (classical or not) and might even create a sound portrait for you.

Event summary

on
10 May to 14 Jun 2025
at
11:30 to 12:15
+ 1 other date or time
Event

May half-term at The Firs 

This half term at The Fir, tick off some 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾. Dotted around the garden there will be fun family activities to take part in.

Event summary

on
24 May to 1 Jun 2025
at
10:00 to 16:30
+ 7 other dates or times
Event

Extra Open Day for the Elgar Festival 

The Firs will be open two extra days this week to celebrate the Elgar Festival taking place.

Event summary

on
27 May to 29 May 2025
at
10:00 to 16:30
+ 1 other date or time