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Civic Festival Concert – Sunday 28th June 2026

Join the Elstree Mozart Players for a spectacular evening of music at this year’s Civic Festival, featuring a rich and uplifting programme with sparkling classics, lyrical gems, and one of the greatest symphonies ever written, this concert promises an unforgettable musical experience.

The Elstree Mozart Players were founded in 2018 by Derek Holland, Pat Strack, and Andrew Grady, with the aim of bringing high‑quality classical music to the communities of Elstree and Borehamwood.

The orchestra is made up of a blend of professional musicians, semi‑professionals, and highly skilled amateurs, assembled on a concert‑by‑concert basis to create a flexible ensemble capable of performing a wide range of repertoire to a professional standard.

The concert will be led by the Musical Director, Derek Holland, and introducing Meg Storer who will conduct the opening work to be performed, Schubert’s Overture in C, In the Italian Style, a bright and effervescent curtain‑raiser brimming with operatic flair.

A moment of serene beauty follows with Zipoli’s Adagio all’ Eleviazione for cello, oboe, and orchestra, featuring soloists Juliet Maclean and Barry Solomon.

The spotlight then turns to a rare treat: Crusell’s Concertante in B-flat, Op. 3, showcasing the virtuosity of wind soloists Stephen Randall (clarinet), Caitlin Stock (bassoon), and Tim Egan (horn).

Violinist Serena Leader brings charm and elegance to two of Fritz Kreisler’s most beloved pieces, Liebesfreud and Liebeslied — before the orchestra delights with Grainger’s lively Country Gardens.

The evening reaches its pinnacle with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, Eroica — a bold, revolutionary masterpiece that changed the course of music history. Under Derek Holland’s direction, this monumental work promises a thrilling and powerful finale.

Celebrate the Civic Festival with an orchestra at the heart of the community and enjoy a night of exceptional music-making from the Elstree Mozart Players.

Tickets: £15.00 in advance, 20.00 with concessions: £15.00 on the night

Advance tickets are available and can be booked either:

Online: www.ticketsource.com/elstree-mozart-players or by email: elstreemozrtplayers@outlook.com or by phone: Pat Strack on 07790 305428

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Elstree Mozart Players Scratch Choral Concert

All Saints Church, Borehamwood 14th March 2026 – 7:30pm.

The Elstree Mozart Players (EMP), conducted by Derek Holland. Guest conductor – Meg Storer. The Muswell Hill Chorus, Chorus master – Louise Sherlock. Soprano – Elizabeth Venner, Mezzo Soprano – Janice Watson, Tenor – Laurie Marks, Bass – Stuart Jenkins.


This long-anticipated Scratch Choral Concert began with a purely orchestral first half. EMP were delighted to invite Meg Storer to open proceedings by conducting Mozart’s brilliant Overture to The Magic Flute. She gave a wonderful rendition and received rapturous applause.

Next, Derek performed Schubert’s dramatic and romantic Unfinished Symphony, No.8 in B minor. The mysterious and brooding opening, he judged perfectly, and the tempo remained Allegro Moderato throughout. The second movement kept moving too; an Andante con moto that never slowed. Before the last note had finished, they got resounding applause from the audience.

Derek finished this half with some light classical music, On a Spring Note by Sidney Torch, who was also founder of the long running radio programme – Friday Night is Music Night. Derek and EMP never miss an opportunity to play these wonderfully orchestrated light classical works, and as always, the audience showed just how greatly they appreciate the music.

In the second half, there was just one work: – Mozart’s Requiem, nearly 50 minutes of music for Choir, soloists and orchestra. Among the soloists, was Internationally acclaimed opera singer Janice Watson, who continues her happy association with Derek and EMP. Also, Elizabeth Venner, Laurie Marks and Stuart Jenkins continue to show their mettle and shine for EMP on a regular basis.

Now although this was a scratch choral concert, which means anyone of any standard can turn up and sing, we had the superb services of the Muswell Hill Chorus. As a seasoned and well-trained group, they strengthened the choral lines and supported the enthusiastic, complete novices to good effect.

The performance was magnificent and well received at the end, all performers given hearty applause, especially our esteemed soloists. What a resounding vote of thanks to all involved!

Graham Wilson (Freelance Reviewer for EMP)

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Janice Watson Sings – Charity Concert

Sunday 17th May 2026

We are delighted to invite you to an unforgettable evening in the company of the renowned soprano Janice Watson.

Celebrated for her captivating voice and expressive performances, Janice has appeared on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. This special event promises a rich and inspiring programme, perfect for lovers of classical music and anyone looking to enjoy a memorable night out.

This concert is not only an opportunity to experience exceptional live music, but also a chance to make a meaningful difference.

Proceeds from the evening will go towards supporting Prostate Cancer UK and The Stroke Association—the dedicated charities supported by the Rotary Club of the Studios & Elstree and Borehamwood.

The Club’s President for 2025–26, George Carr, is proud to champion these important causes, which carry out vital work in research, care, and support for individuals and families across the UK.

By attending, you will be directly contributing to these meaningful initiatives while enjoying a wonderful evening of music.

Whether you are a long-time admirer or discovering her artistry for the first time, this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy live performance while supporting charitable work in your community.

Tickets cost: £15.00 in advance or £20.00 on the night, with concessions available.

Tickets are available from 6th April 2026 at either:

www.ticketsource.co.uk/elstree-mozart-players or Email: elstreemozartplayers@outlook.com or by contacting Pat Strack on 07790 305428