We are turning up the volume this autumn with Heard It Here First, a season-long showcase of handpicked live music.
From Gaelic folk and genre-bending global sounds to indie favourites and electronic trad, the programme brings together an exciting mix of established names and boundary-pushing artists.
It’s time to discover your new favourite artist…
Kicking off the season is acclaimed Scottish singer-songwriter Norrie MacIver (16 October). Best known as the former frontman of Skipinnish, one of Scotland’s most popular folk bands, MacIver brings his powerful vocals, melodic songwriting and deep roots in Gaelic tradition to the stage. Expect an evening celebrating Scotland’s rich musical heritage with a fresh, contemporary twist.
Later in October, Barcelona’s El Pony Pisador (31 October) bring their infectious energy to the Malt Room, joined by support act Good Mojo. Blending folk traditions from across the globe with humour, adventurous arrangements and lively performances, the band are known for their unpredictable sound and playful approach to music.
November sees the return of a familiar local name as Hayden Thorpe (14 November) takes to the stage to perform The Songs of Wild Beasts. For the first time in almost nine years, the Kendal-born musician revisits the much-loved Wild Beasts songbook, stripping the songs back to their original form through solo voice and instrumentation. Joined by support from William Doyle, this highly anticipated homecoming performance has already sold out.
As winter arrives, acclaimed folk group The Unthanks (3 December) bring their atmospheric seasonal show, The Unthanks In Winter. Featuring songs from their celebrated In Winter album, the performance explores the beauty, darkness and light of the colder months through the group’s distinctive harmonies and rich musical arrangements. Hailed by The Times as ‘the gold standard’ of winter records, this enchanting performance has also sold out.
Rounding off the programme are Valtos (13 December), the Skye-based duo pushing the boundaries of traditional Scottish music with their electrifying fusion of folk and electronica. Since their debut in 2021, Daniel Docherty and Martyn MacDonald have built a reputation for captivating live performances, combining traditional influences with driving electronic beats. Their genre-defying sound promises an exhilarating end to the season.
With two performances already sold out, Heard It Here First is an opportunity to experience exceptional live music, discover new sounds and see celebrated artists up close in Kendal. From intimate acoustic performances to high-energy evenings in the Malt Room, there’s something for every music lover this autumn and winter.
With a Brewery Arts Membership, you can enjoy even more live music, cinema and comedy throughout the year. Membership offers a range of exclusive discounts and ticket offers, while helping to support our diverse programme and creative learning opportunities.
Browse our full live music listings.
Tickets for Hayden Thorpe and The Unthanks are sold out, but audiences can contact the Box Office to join the waiting lists.
