The Uppermill Summer Music Festival said 'cello' to a stellar line-up of international artists and emerging local talent this year, treating audiences to a feast of classical and contemporary music across four village venues. The festival, a highlight of Saddleworth’s cultural calendar, offered 11 unmissable events that spanned from the Baroque brilliance of Vivaldi to the operatic drama of Verdi, and much more besides. For local music lovers, it was a chance to hear world-class performances on their doorstep, with a strong emphasis on showcasing young professionals from the region.

Among the returning favourites is mezzo soprano Kathryn Rudge, who will close a remarkable year of concerts at Uppermill Methodist Church. Her programme will feature a rich collection of English songs by Schubert, Elgar, Ivor Novello and Eric Coates—whose celebrated Dambusters' March remains a stirring favourite. Rudge’s performance promises to be a highlight for the village, bringing together the warmth of English song with the intimate setting of the Methodist Church, and continuing the festival’s tradition of blending international artistry with community venues.

In sadder news for the local music community, the funeral has taken place of Donald Clarke, one of Saddleworth’s best-known and most talented musicians. Mr Clarke, who died on 27 April at the age of 82, studied the violin at Oldham Lyceum School of Music under Ernest Craig and later with Martin Milner, former leader of the Halle Orchestra. Despite pressure from his teachers to pursue a professional orchestral career, Clarke chose to share his passion for music in other ways, becoming a respected figure in Saddleworth’s musical life and a mentor to many younger players.

His legacy as a dedicated musician and teacher will be remembered across Oldham and Saddleworth. The Uppermill Summer Music Festival, with its focus on nurturing young talent, stands as a fitting testament to the kind of local musical culture that Clarke helped to sustain. As the village looks forward to Kathryn Rudge’s autumn concert, there is a sense that the music that filled Uppermill this summer—and the quiet dedication of figures like Donald Clarke—will continue to echo through the community for years to come.