Abbotsholme Arts Society was founded in 1968 by Gordon Clark, the Director of Music at Abbotsholme School. The first concert was given by the oboist Leon Goossens on 24th September of that year. Since that time, many of the most prominent international performers, both soloists and ensembles, have come to Abbotsholme, contributing to the success and reputation of the Society. The 2017-18 season marked the Society’s 50th anniversary, which is an indication of the dedication of all who have been involved. Musical events are held in the fine chapel at Abbotsholme School and the intimate atmosphere is appreciated by both performers and audience. The Society has been honoured to have had four most supportive Patrons. Lord Platt was the first and he was succeeded by Lord Gibson, then Paul Tortelier and now Steven Isserlis. When Gordon Clark died in 1989 he was succeeded by Paul Spicer, then in 2001 by Meurig Bowen, then Richard Hawley, Neil Millensted and now the current Artistic Director, Simon Crookall. Abbotsholme, a co-educational day/boarding school founded in 1889, is situated in the picturesque Dove Valley close to Uttoxeter and Ashbourne. The main façade of the school is dominated by a magnificent copper beech tree, an image of which forms the Society's logo.
