Charles Wood Festival Alumni Gathering 2026
Come back to Armagh—just like old times!
2026 marks the centenary of the death of Charles Wood and, as part of this landmark Festival year, we are delighted to invite our alumni back to Armagh for a very special celebration.
Over 33 years, the Charles Wood Festival and Summer School has brought together generations of singers, conductors, organists, tutors, volunteers and supporters. The Festival’s story has been shaped by every person who has taken part, and we would love you to join us as we celebrate those friendships, memories and achievements.
Our Alumni Gathering will take place on Thursday 20 and Friday 21 August 2026, featuring a Centenary Gala Dinner at the Archbishop’s Palace, rehearsals with David Hill and the Charles Wood Singers, and the opportunity to sing in our Gala Concert—just like old times!
Not Singing? You Are Still Very Welcome!
You do not need to sing to be part of the Alumni Gathering. Former and current tutors, conductors, organists, volunteers, supporters and friends of the Festival are warmly invited to attend the Gala Dinner and Gala Concert and help us celebrate this important moment in the Festival’s history.
We hope you can join us in Armagh for a memorable celebration of the music, friendships and shared experiences that have made the Charles Wood Festival so special.
Centenary Gala Dinner
Thursday 20 August 2026 at 8.00pm
The Archbishop’s Palace, Palace Demesne, Armagh
All are welcome to the magnificent surroundings of the Archbishop’s Palace to commemorate the centenary of Charles Wood’s death. It promises to be a wonderful evening of friendship, reflection and celebration, honouring the people and partnerships that have shaped the Festival’s remarkable journey.
Tickets: £65 per person
Includes: Dinner, wine and soft drinks
Dress code: Lounge suit and cocktail dress
Catering: Old Barn Catering
Gala Dinner Menu
Canapés Starter
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Yorkshire pudding with pulled beef and horseradish cream
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Crab, avocado and mango tartlet
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Goat’s cheese, red onion chutney, tomato and basil scone
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Ulster fry on a stick
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Mixed fruit skewer
Main Course
Pan-fried supreme of chicken with peppercorn sauce, fondant potato, cabbage and bacon, and glazed carrot
Dessert
Caramelised lemon tart with raspberry and mint reduction
Tea, Coffee, Wine and Soft Drinks included
Please include any dietary requirements when booking your ticket.
Sing with the Charles Wood Singers
Alumni singers are invited to return to the choir and rehearse with David Hill and the Charles Wood Singers before joining them in that evening’s Centenary Gala Concert. It will be a very special opportunity to reconnect with old friends, revisit the Festival from the choir stalls and once again experience the joy of making music together in Armagh.
Rehearsal Times
Morning rehearsal: 10.00am–12.00pm
Afternoon rehearsal: 2.00pm–5.00pm
Gala Concert: 8.00pm
There is no charge to take part, but advance registration is essential. Please complete the form.
