Room: Assembly Room

Lunchtime Jazz

The second in a new series of monthly lunchtime trio jazz concerts arranged by Guildford Jazz, taking place at The Guildford Institute.

The performances are held in the historic Assembly Room at the Institute which boasts a grand piano.

Lunch available: 12pm to 2pm
(book a table via the Guildford Jazz link below or direct with V Cafe)
Performance: 2pm to 3pm

This lunchtime jazz concert features guitarist NICOLAS MEIER and pianist ALEX HUTTON.

A rare opportunity to hear one of the world’s most original and uniquely talented guitarists, Nicolas Meier, in an intimate trio setting! Drawing from a love of Turkish, Eastern & Middle Eastern music, Flamenco, Tango, and more—all mixed with jazz— Nicolas’ versatility and musical fluency are well known and loved by Guildford audiences.

Pianist Alex Hutton is one of the UK Jazz’s hidden treasures. A fine composer, with an ear for folk and classical influences, he is a gifted, thoughtful improviser and a mainstay of the London Jazz scene who has worked with the leading figures from Jim Mullen and Pete King to Pete Wareham. Marianne Windham completes the trio on bass.

Find out more and book via the Guildford Jazz website

Cost:

  • Full Price £12 (performance only)
  • Guildford Jazz or Guildford Institute Members: £10 (performance only)
  • Lunch is at an additional cost

Lunchtime Jazz will also take place on the following dates:

  • 16 June
  • 14 July
Microphone and stand

Guildford Institute Open Mic Night

Once again The Guildford Institute opens its doors to welcome musicians, singers, poets and comedians to come along and give it a go, whether experienced or just starting out!

The GI Music Lounge is an intimate setting with a small stage, full PA and lights (all provided) and a beautiful Bechstein grand piano is also be available to play.

A licensed bar will be open from 6.30pm and throughout the event (taking cash & card). Music will begin at 7pm and end approx. 10pm.

PERFORMERS: Please just come along and sign up for a slot on arrival (no need to pre-book)

AUDIENCE: Book your space in advance or just come along on the night

We are a self-funded charity so a ticket that includes a small donation will help to continue our work at the Institute.

 

Kindly sponsored by

 

 

Lunchtime Jazz

*Sold out*

The first in a new series of monthly lunchtime trio jazz concerts arranged by Guildford Jazz, taking place at The Guildford Institute.

The performances are held in the historic Assembly Room at the Institute which boasts a grand piano.

Lunch available: 12pm to 2pm
(book a table via the Guildford Jazz link below or direct with V Cafe)
Performance: 2pm to 3pm

This opening concert features the prodigiously talented pianist and composer Terence Collie with the sensational Sophie Alloway  on drums and Marianne Windham on bass.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find out more and book via Guildford Jazz 

Cost:

  • Full Price £12 (performance only)
  • Guildford Jazz or Guildford Institute Members: £10 (performance only)
  • Lunch is at an additional cost

Lunchtime Jazz will also take place on the following dates:

  • 19 May
  • 16 June
  • 14 July

Guildford Arts Exhibition – Impressions From Landscape

IMPRESSIONS FROM LANDSCAPE  17 March – 24 April

Guildford Arts and Guildford Institute are pleased to display work by talented local artists:

John Darnell
‘Images from Landscape’ … it begins with the light and the editing eye then using a camera and endeavouring to create that first impression but often the creative juices begin to see more in a particular image and how that moment begins to play on the imagination.

E: johndarnell@macace.net


Andrew Curtis

This collection of mixed media pieces is a celebration of some of the places he has been. As memories, most will photograph and he collects rubbish. The resulting compositions are disposable bits of flotsam yet presented as small treasures: a palimpsest of his experience of a place.
W: www.andrewcurtis.com
E: info@andrewcurtis.com

Private View: There will be a private view on Thursday 20 March 6.30-7.30pm when John Darnell and Andrew Curtis will give a short talk and chat to guests.
Drinks are available at the Institute’s bar.

Guildford Arts Exhibition

Douglas Kurn
As a landscape photographer, Douglas finds himself captivated by the delicate interplay between light, land, and emotion. His work seeks to capture not just the beauty of the natural world but also the profound connection we share with it. Each photograph is a moment suspended in time, a reflection of the fleeting yet powerful experiences we encounter in nature.
www.douglaskurn.com

Photo by Douglas Kurn

 

Stephen Kinder
Stephen has always found great comfort and joy in the landscape. This continues to be a great inspiration for his paintings, whether small pieces on location or larger ones in the studio. He is intrigued by the ever-changing weather and seasons, which so dramatically change a locality. His work intends to be a reaction to the preciousness of a moment and the essence of a place.
www.stephenkinderart.com

 

Both artists will be selling cards (purchase at reception – cash is preferred).

For evening viewing, call in advance: 01483 562142

 

Dean Dyson singing and playing a guitar

Dean Dyson – E095

The Institute is very pleased to welcome back Dean Dyson for an evening of music, performing his own songs and a selection of classic covers. Dean led a nomadic childhood, living all over Britain, Germany and Singapore before settling in London aged 18, where he won the National Folk Contest in 1973.

Dean has enjoyed a long career of memorable gigs, some prestigious like the Bluebird in Nashville and London’s Barbican, most at humble but welcoming local venues. His songs have been covered internationally and achieved platinum success in Europe and the U.S.A.- see www.deandyson.com

Today he also loves to play on the streets of different towns and cities, sharing his love of music with others.

His last appearance here was sold out weeks before so book early!


The bar will be open before and during the gig.

Music Nights kindly sponsored by Andertons Music Co.

Hampshire Hawk Experience -E094

Join Anita Ebdon from Hampshire Hawk Walks to experience this fascinating talk in the comfort of the Institute’s large function space. Enjoy a unique chance to get close and learn all about these amazing predators and the environment they live in. You will meet a selection of birds from a barn owl, kestrel, buzzard and a harris hawk (depending on who is in the right mood on the day)!

Anita will share her love of these incredible creatures and her life as a falconer.

Brunel’s Kingdom – T359

Isambard Brunel was a mechanical and civil engineer considered ‘one of the greatest figures of the industrial revolution’.

Voted second (to Winston Churchill) in a list of the 100 Greatest Britons in 2002.

During a comparatively short career, Brunel designed and built tunnels, bridges, railways, and ocean liners, many transforming the British landscape.

We are pleased to welcome Chris back to give a talk on another fascinating subject.

VE Day Tea Party: A Shared Moment of Celebration – E092

In early May the nation will join together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day).  Join us to celebrate this significant moment in history and remember those who gave their lives at home and abroad, whose sacrifice enable peace today.

You will enjoy tea, coffee and cake with a glass of prosecco to toast the moment. Hear classic tunes from vintage singer, Jennifer Merchant, and get creative with Open Access Arts to help add a splash of colour to the event. They will be offering fun ideas to encourage sharing of personal experiences and family memories of war time.

Guildford Institute Fundraising Quiz Night – E093

Join us for a night of fun, laughter, and fundraising at our Quiz Night.

Test your knowledge with a variety of rounds of questions, many set by our fantastic tutors. From art history to literature and poetry, local history and a music round with live piano accompaniment, there’s something for everyone.

Gather your friends and make up your own team or come solo and join forces with others for a chance to win prizes.

During the interval, indulge in a selection of British cheeses and biscuits (vegetarian/vegan option available) to keep your brain fuelled.

  • Please inform us of any dietary requiremements before the day
    (amymason@guildford-institute.org.uk)
  • Teams will be limited to 6 people per team/table
  • If you are a solo individual booking then we will help you to find a group to join on arrival

Enter our charity raffle for just £2.50 for the chance to win luxury prizes and support us to provide accessible cultural education. Purchase your tickets in advance – winners will be drawn on the night.

The bar will be open before and during the event.

Doors & bar open: 6.15pm
Quiz starts: 7pm
Evening ends: 10pm

Celebrating Guildford Mayors – E091

Since the first Mayor of Guildford was appointed in 1362, the role of the town’s first citizen has been held by over 600 people.

Here is a chance to learn about some of the distinguished, philanthropic, scandalous and devious citizens that have held the office down the years!

Enjoy a chance, in the presence of Guildford Mayor, Councillor Sallie Barker MBE, to look back at the history of the Mayors of Guildford. Former Mayor, Terence Patrick, will show a 45 minute film from local Circle Eight Film Makers (narrated by local historian Matthew Alexander), and you will have the opportunity to socialise over tea, coffee and cake.

Thomas Gainsborough: His Life and Times – T364

Gainsborough (1727–88) is acclaimed for his matchless portraits, landscapes and sketches but less well known is that nearly one hundred of his lively letters survive.

Written on personal topics such as friends, family, household and money matters – and indeed his attitude to women: he was a great flirt!

Historians and regular speakers at the Institute, Alfred Bradley and Sue Morris present a fascinating look at these letters with a selection of readings.

The Deepdene – T363

The story of a remarkable Dorking estate, its fascinating owners over 300 years and its eventual decline.

The Deepdene was an estate and country house in Dorking once owned by Thomas Hope (from a wealthy banking family and widely travelled).

Peter Sturge MBE, a volunteer guide at the Dorking Museum, will introduce some of the notable characters who once lived there and tell the mysterious tale of the Hope Diamond.

Strictly Tempo Music and Dancing – T362

With Strictly Come Dancing due back on our screens, we welcome you to celebrate the background of dance with Louise’s light-hearted talk.

Her grandfather, Johnny Douglas, composed and arranged music for ballroom and latin dancing.

As the title says, there is a strict tempo to each style of dance with varying beats per minute and time signatures.

In this talk, Louise will share a brief history and description of some of the dance styles, as well as the music timing and style with many excerpts to listen to.

NOTE: Don’t miss our coach visit to see how Strictly’s costumes are made.

Law and Disorder – T361

Surprisingly, Guildford has a colourful history of rebels, criminals and the penalties they paid.

Despite being the centre for administration of Law in the county, the town has witnessed many atrocities and major crimes. Guildford was also the site of three prisons over the centuries.

The remnants of two of these are still prominent landmarks in the town. Local tour guide Chris will dip into the stories of this murky, but fascinating, past.

Acting Can Be Murder – T360

Linda is a successful actress and crime writer. She has appeared in over a hundred television shows, films, many commercials, as well as radio.

You might recognise her as April in Hi-De-Hi and in Quadrophenia, with her husband Brian Murphy.

Linda will look back at her long career, with tales of things that go wrong, famous people she has worked with and secrets from behind the scenes.

She will also reflect on her journey into crime writing and how to kill people off and not feel guilty!

Her talk is entertaining, light-hearted, informative and sometimes laugh out loud funny!

Superspy Science – T358

Science and technology have always been central to the plots that make up the world of James Bond.

In this talk Kathryn Harkup explores 007’s exploits from the practicalities of building a volcano-based lair, to whether being covered in gold paint really will kill you. And, if your plan is to take over the world, is it better to use bacteria, bombs, or poison?

This event will give you the answers to all your Bond villain questions. Kathryn is a former chemist turned author with a particular interest in the disgusting and dangerous side of science.

Sir Morris Abbot and the Spice Trade – T357

George Abbot, Archbishop of Canterbury under King James I, was not the only member of this Guildford family to achieve national prominence.

His younger brother, Morris, rose to be one of the most powerful merchants in the City of London in the 17th century.

Unlike his brother who suffered opposition, he successfully gained the trust and respect of his fellow merchants. In this talk, Nick will shed light on the life of this lesser known son of the Abbot family.

Nick has been interested in Guildford History for many years and he is currently Leader of the Guildford Town Guides and Chairman of the Friends of Guildford Museum.

The Creation and Restoration of Painshill, Surrey – T356

Painshill was one of the finest landscape gardens of the Georgian era, a garden designed to play on the senses and imagination.

During the 20th century it became neglected, overgrown and its buildings started to decay. Since 1981 restoration has been ongoing, through archive research, archaeological excavations and hard work.

Overseen by a dedicated staff and volunteers, the magic and beauty of Painshill can once more be enjoyed by visitors. Cherrill is a freelance garden historian with an MA in the Conservation of Landscapes, Parks & Gardens. She has been a historical consultant at Painshill Landscape Garden in Surrey since 2004.

The Secret Lives of Butterflies – T355

Are there Camberwell Beauties in Camberwell? And why is the Red Admiral so named?

Did you know that some butterflies can be carnivorous? Some can sing and some conduct chemical warfare? We will explore the secret lives of some of the 59 species of UK butterfly, plus our regular visitors.

Discover why almost half our butterflies are threatened and what we can do about it. Peter is a local beekeeper, amateur entomologist and writer who works to raise awareness of some of the issues faced by our local pollinators

When the Railways Came to Guildford – T354

This year is the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway from which Britain and the world changed forever. It is also the 180th anniversary of when the railway came to Guildford and 100th anniversary of the first electric train running into Guildford.

Geoff and David will trace the development of railways lines into Guildford from 1845 to the present day, with fascinating vintage photos.

David is a local historian and writer who is mad on railways and Geoff is a retired railway-man and historian who started his career at Guildford’s steam engine shed in 1961.

History of the Red Arrows – T353

Red Arrows pilots are amongst the most highly-skilled and experienced within the Royal Air Force.

This talk explores the history of RAF Aerobatics teams and includes a look at what goes into making the RAF Red Arrows the premier aerobatics team in the world.

Guy is an aviation historian and trainer and will use archive film footage, technology, music, humour and a genuine enthusiasm for the subject to provide a fascinating insight into this massively popular flight team.

John Keats – A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever – T352

For many, Keats is the very image of a poet. After a few short years of great striving and a huge outpouring of incomparable poetry, he died tragically young.

There is a local link: in November 1817 he came to stay at the inn at Burford Bridge near Box Hill, Dorking, to finish his great poem Endymion.

In this talk, with readings, historians Sue Morris and Alfred Bradley will present extracts from his matchless poetry and letters.

Art and Decor of Moscow Metro & St Petersburg – T351

Mike has previously talked at the Institute about the London underground and Paris Metro and now he returns to look at the Moscow Metro.

Mike will share his life-long interest in art and architecture, using images, to look at the magnificent stations of the Moscow Metro.

Their design, décor and art, long recognised as the most beautiful and exotic of all world-wide city transit systems. From large spaces, marble, mosaics and chandeliers to large-scale art installations created by Russia’s leading artists over the last 90 years. A true celebration of the strength and culture of the Russian people.

The Golden Age of Children’s Television – T350

Join author and TV historian Jeff Evans on a journey through your childhood as he tells the fascinating story of children’s television in the UK.

Jeff’s colourful talk covers the period from the start of television to the 1970s, a golden age for those who grew up glued to the small screen when home from school.

You may remember the earliest stars such as Muffin the Mule and Andy Pandy; or you may recall series such as Crackerjack, Ivor the Engine, Thunderbirds or The Magic Roundabout. This illustrated talk features them all, and much more besides.

Life of an Auctioneer – T349

Head Auctioneer of RWB Auctions, Gareth Wasp, will be talking about his life and experiences from his 20 year career in auctioneering. Sharing stories from his time spent working at Sotheby’s and behind the scenes of some of the UK’s favourite antique TV shows such as Flog It and Bargain Hunt.

Learn how auction houses bring their sales to life and what makes antiques so popular.

Gareth will also be available at The Guildford Institute from 10am to 2.30pm providing free auction valuations in the Institute library on your items beforehand.
Booking is essential:  email – office@rwbauctions.com / 01793840777

 

Saving Munstead Wood – Repeat – T348

After a fully booked first talk we are pleased to offer another chance to hear from Katherine Mills, General Manager of the National Trust’s newest acquisition, Munstead Wood. Based near Godalming, this was the home of Gertrude Jekyll (1843–1932), who created a 15-acre garden which became the place of experimentation for her future designs.

Acquired by the National Trust in 2023, plans are underway to restore the garden and interpret Jekyll’s legacy. Katherine has worked for the Trust for 13 years and will offer an insight into Jekyll’s life, influence and look at the Trust’s work to share this garden treasure.

Thames Bridges -T347

There are more than 30 bridges across the River Thames between Tower Bridge and Hampton Court, and most of these have been replaced at least once.

This talk takes a meandering journey along the river, discussing some of the bridges and revealing facts about them that aren’t widely known. Chris has retired from a long career with British Airways and now enjoys giving talks on subjects of personal interest.

Guildford Arts Exhibition: Jan Dagley & Sarah Simmonds-Gooding

The Guildford Institute and Guildford Arts are pleased to present their recent exhibition in their Assembly Room. Join us to view the great work of local artists:

JAN DAGLEY

Jan’s work is either in response to poetry or to fragrance. She is particularly interested in synaestheisa where one sense activates another sense or senses and  recently collaborated with a perfume house in Dorset for a large one-man show. She is interested in analysing the colours, shapes, textures and sounds of fragrances as a springboard for her work.  Her paintings are usually oil on canvas although she sometimes works on board and uses mixed media for specific effects.

SARAH SIMMONDS-GOODING

Sarah’s work is based around pattern and order to try and make sense of the muddle that is often real life. The little individual pieces are an ongoing art diary reflecting memories, feelings and observations, drawn from a state of mind rather than a specific location or reality. She then collates the individual squares together to create a type of patchwork blanket or tapestry reflecting moments over a life. The miniature scale of the individual pieces invites the viewer to move inwards, the gaze is encouraged to slow down and  invite curiosity of one’s own mental states. Her interest has been formed by her own personal experience with mental illness and the art she now produces acts as a way to calm her mind, a sort of meditation. Her art has taken her into a new and exciting direction which she is thoroughly enjoying.

Evening access is available but call ahead to check accessibility – 01483 562142

Music Night: Abi Powell & Matt Keddie – E090

Due to unforeseen circumstances, this event has been postponed until the autumn.

The Guildford Institute are pleased to welcome more great, local talent.

The bar will be open from 6.30pm and throughout the event. There will be a scheduled interval.

Tickets can be purchased on the night but preferably booked in advance.

Abi Powell

Abi Powell is a soulful acoustic guitar player with a voice as gritty as it is captivating. Drawing inspiration from the timeless sounds of Amy Winehouse, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, and beyond, Abi brings a unique blend of passion, nostalgia, and raw emotion to every performance.

Their acoustic renditions of classic songs, combined with an unmistakable voice that resonates with authenticity, have garnered them a growing following. With influences ranging from jazz and Motown to rock and pop, Abi’s sound is both timeless and modern, offering a fresh take on beloved tracks while staying true to their roots.

See more HERE

Matt Keddie

Matt, dubbed as a “Loop Pedal Virtuoso” by some, enchants audiences across Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire with his performances. With his skillful use of the loop pedal, Matt’s unique renditions of popular tunes promise an unforgettable experience.

Alternatively to a gig of a variety of covers from many artists, Matt also offers a special tribute to Ed Sheeran. Drawing from Ed’s extensive repertoire spanning multiple albums, Matt delivers a tribute that captures the essence and energy of Sheeran’s performances. From soulful ballads such as ‘Perfect’ to upbeat anthems like ‘Castle on the Hill’, Matt’s tribute show promises to transport you to the heart of an authentic Ed Sheeran concert experience. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a night of fantastic music, his Ed Sheeran-inspired show will ensure your event is nothing short of extraordinary.

See more HERE

 

Music Nights kindly sponsored by Andertons Music Co.

Music Night: Hedge Inspectors & Heavy Stomp (E088)

The Guildford Institute are pleased to share an evening of brilliant, local talent from:

Hedge Inspectors

Mike and Caroline, aka The Hedge Inspectors, are an acoustic duo based in Hampshire. They perform original songs on a variety of instruments- drawing from multiple genres, to reflect their eclectic musical influences.

Their songs move from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again, with subjects derived from ‘true’ situations and the human condition. They thrive on audience participation, so expect to be singing and shouting along !

Find out more at – https://www.unplugthewood.com/thehedgeinspectors

See a video clip here

Heavy Stomp: Alex MacDonald 

The world’s heaviest one-man band !

Enjoy the very best of your favourite rock and pop classics from this talented , local artist. This solo-act brings the mighty sound of a full band that is all live, with no loopers or backing tracks!

With the helpful know-how of pedal circuitry and experience in adapting performances, Alex has now turned into a staple and popular act across Surrey’s gigging circuit!
From 50’s rock ‘n’ roll to present day, you will enjoy a great night of entertainment for all.

See a video clip here

BOOKING IS AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR AS WELL AS IN ADVANCE.

A POP-UP BAR WILL BE OPERATING FROM 6.30PM AND DURING THE ENTERTAINMENT (CASH AND CARD ACCEPTED/THERE WILL BE AN INTERVAL)

Guildford Institute Music Night: The Flamenco Thief – E089

THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT

Craig Sutton, aka “The Flamenco Thief”, is an English instrumentalist who blends fingerstyle and percussive guitar techniques to produce a classic-contemporary Mediterranean sound with lashings of South-American substance. His music incorporates Spanish acoustic, Latin, rumba, and bosa nova with hip-hop and electronica.

With a career spanning 14 years, 4 albums, and numerous tours in Europe, Asia, and South America, he has established himself as a respected artist within the independent music scene. His music features a unique hybrid palette of classic instrumental sounds and digital elements that appeal to diverse cultures. Craig’s philosophy of experimenting and trying new things is evident in his album’s progressive journey, from showcasing his raw musicianship to featuring full instrumental sections.

The Flamenco Thief will be playing two 45-minute sets on the night, with a selection of solo loop and songs featuring guest musicians.

Hear some of Flamenco Thief’s music at: https://youtu.be/j40C6SrxkXU

https://www.theflamencothief.com

https://www.reinisjaunais.com

The bar will be open from 6.30pm and throughout the evening. Light snack available & cash/card accepted.

Music Nights kindly sponsored by Andertons Music Co.

GI Film Screenings: Breakfast at Tiffany’s – E085

Join us for tea, coffee and biscuits with a chance to socialise with others before enjoying this afternoon film offering.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is the story of a young woman, Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, who navigates her way through the café society of 1940s New York.
The film offers an entertaining look through her unusual and precarious lifestyle revealing a need for personal freedom but a yearning for a sense of belonging and a true home.

Doors open & refreshments served: 2.45pm
Film showing: 3pm

Running time: 1hr 55 mins.

Music Night with Tristan Seume – E083

THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT

The Guildford Institute is pleased to welcome Tristan Seume, acclaimed as one of the UK’s leading acoustic guitarists. He has toured all over Europe both as a soloist and a sought-after accompanist. His solo recordings, You Just Know, Middle Child and Handpicked From the Eighties, mix handcrafted originals with beautiful interpretations of traditional and contemporary tunes.

As an in-demand side-man, he has played countless shows accompanying some of the foremost voices on the UK folk scene and he runs regular workshops supporting musical education of others.
Join us for this enjoyable night of music.

Listen to Tristain HERE

Find out more at www.tristanseume.com

 

Music Nights kindly sponsored by Andertons Music Co.

 

Town Crier: Something to Shout About – T341 (Face to Face)

Jonathan was the Farnham Town Crier for 17 years (from 2003) and will present this entertaining and informative talk in full regalia.

He will give a fascinating look at the history of Town Criers, which can be traced back to at least medieval times. You will also learn more about their uniform, daily duties, competitions and how Jonathan, himself, was appointed.

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