THE fifth Frinton Festival has been hailed a “resounding success” with 650 tickets sold.

The celebration of classical music in locations across the town attracted excited fans over the three-day event, many of whom attended more than one event.

Braintree and Witham Times:

Sophie Lockett, James Kirby and Robert Max 

Robert Max, one third of the Barbican Trio who perform and help organise the festival, said: “Duncan Archard and I were thrilled with the way the Frinton Festival Evensong has taken off.

“He is the director of music at St Mary’s Church and the Frinton Festival Evensong was his idea, so he’s been responsible for its growing success.

Braintree and Witham Times:

The Massive Violins at Frinton Tennis Club

“I’m delighted to see the way it’s really taking off and making a special contribution to the parish church’s activities as well as the festival.

“A large and enthusiastic choir treated an equally large congregation to a very special service.”

Before the festival began, the Barbican Piano Trio performed to 300 primary school children, thanks to the generous support of the Cavatina Chamber Music Trust.

Those concerts were followed by visits from storyteller Kevin Graal.

Braintree and Witham Times:

Violinsts Maria Włoszczowska and Tim Crawford, Adam Newman on viola and Robert Max at All Saints’ Church

Robert said: “I’m grateful to Jo and Brian Beattie and their team for enticing many of the children and their families to join us for spectacular tea and cakes at St Mary’s after the world premiere of the Remarkable Tale of Prince Unexpected.”

Following to the event’s huge success, 2019 is already in the diary – taking place between May 24 and 27.

“Everyone who comes has commented on the warm welcome they receive when they come to festival events and to the engaging, exciting and insightful character of the concerts,” said cellist Robert.

Braintree and Witham Times:

Robert Max

“This year I invited all those who had helped the festival to come for drinks at the Homestead after the Festival Evensong and we enjoyed a super party in the garden. Our visitors came as well and this gave everyone another opportunity to mingle.

“Concert-goers living locally have found they’ve enjoyed seeing familiar faces at festival events and have made new friends as a result.”