STALYBRIDGE’S newly refurbished Civic Hall was transformed into a glowing haven of music and warmth for the launch of the brand-new Concerts by Candlelight series.
And The Correspondent witnessed something special.
The Victoria Market building, with its vaulted ceilings, provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of classical music.
Taking place on Friday, October 3, this event marked the beginning of a new tradition of live classical performances in Tameside.
As the first notes rang out from The Talland String Quartet, the hall seemed to hum with anticipation.
Performing to a sell-out crowd, the ensemble treated guests to a journey through timeless autumnal classics – from Haydn’s charm to Tchaikovsky’s passion – before closing with a beautifully chosen rendition of “Autumn Leaves.”
Surrounded by autumnal trees and golden light, it was as if the season itself had stepped inside.
After a short interval, the evening took an exhilarating turn with Vulva Voce, a genre-bending collective fresh from performing at Glastonbury.
@ggc_media STALYBRIDGE’S newly refurbished Civic Hall was transformed into a glowing haven of music and warmth for the launch of the brand-new Concerts by Candlelight series. And The Correspondent witnessed something special. The Victoria Market building, with its vaulted ceilings, provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of classical music. Taking place on Friday, October 3, this event marked the beginning of a new tradition of live classical performances in Tameside Let’s take a Quick Look… #stalybridge #tameside #candlelight #autumn
Their set – drawing from their debut EP Maddalena – was a daring fusion of classical, folk, jazz, and techno. The result? Electric.
Their sound pulsed through the candlelit hall, challenging and enchanting in equal measure.
If you missed this spectacular opening, there is good news. The series will return in Spring 2026 for a special concert on Sunday, March 8, marking International Women’s Day.
The next event will feature the Untold Orchestra, celebrating musical icons from Aretha Franklin to Taylor Swift, alongside local women’s choirs. It promises to be another unmissable evening of artistry.
Cllr Leanne Feeley, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, shared her enthusiasm, saying: “The summer programme has been brilliant!
“Both the comedy weekend and the Pop-Up Beach have been really popular with all ages and families.
“The Candlelight concerts will bring something different again and it’s a great opportunity for everyone to experience something special, as well as for those who already love classical music to enjoy!
“It’s going to be really magical, and I can’t wait to see the Hall in full glow!”
The Concerts by Candlelight series is part of a vibrant new programme at Stalybridge Civic Hall, designed to bring fresh cultural experiences, live music, and community events to the heart of Tameside.
Tickets for the spring concert are now available at www.intameside.co.uk/bycandlelight — priced at £9 per person, with concessions available.