“What a lovely way to share a Saturday morning with my Grandson Finn.”
“Super – loved it. Looking forward to future similar events.”
Chamber Babies
Live Classical Music for Little Listeners
Chamber Babies started in 2014 and was designed to offer the best live classical music to the youngest listeners (and their mums and dads). We are delighted to be working in partnership with The Crescent on this venture, and concerts take place in the relaxed setting of the CAC’s Cube venue.
The concerts are very informal, and the short programmes are designed for babies and adults alike. You can walk, sway, crawl, roll, dance or just chill out to a careful selection of short classical pieces designed both to engage and enchant (or soothe to sleep!). Concerts are aimed at babies from 0 to 18 months old.
All Chamber Babies concerts are performed by professional classical musicians from Northern Ireland. We welcome all listeners, no matter how young (including mums with bumps!). Take time to enjoy coffee and cake at The Crescent’s café before or after the concert.
BMS’s CD, Chamber Babies – classical music for little listeners, came out in 2020. You can listen to extracts and purchase the CD here.
Chamber Babies FAQs
Are there changing facilities?
Yes, the Crescent Arts Centre has baby changing facilities in the ladies toilets, situated on the ground floor of the building near to the Cube.
Can I feed my baby during the concert?
Of course. There is a mixture of seating, from chairs to bean bags to play mats on the floor, so you can choose the most comfortable spot for you and your baby.
What if my baby cries or makes a noise during the concert?
That’s fine. Don’t feel embarrassed if your baby joins in with a few squeals. We only ask that adults don’t talk to each other during the performance, just as you wouldn’t during a ‘normal’ concert – you can save the chat for the cafe!
What is chamber music?
Chamber music is classical music written for small groups of instruments (usually fewer than 12). Typical examples are string quartets, duos such as violin & piano or voice & piano, and trios (usually piano, violin and cello). We also include solo instruments such as piano, concert harp or guitar, and many other small combinations of instruments including wind (e.g. flute, clarinet) and brass instruments (e.g. trumpet).
Is my baby the right age for classical music?
We have designed these concerts for a mainly pre-walking audience. You are never to young to enjoy classical music, and we know babies can hear music in the womb. Most of the music is gentle, though there are livelier pieces too. If you would like to know what will be in the programme, drop us an email at info@belfastmusicsociety.org
Is there somewhere to leave my buggy?
Buggies can be left safely in a separate room adjacent to the Cube.
How long is the concert?
The concert lasts 40 minutes. Our first two concerts have been designed with a 20 minute gap between them, so there is time to enjoy a coffee before or afterwards.
Where is the Crescent Arts Centre?
The Crescent Arts Centre is situated at 2-4 University Road, next to the Crescent Church, just before the junction with the Lisburn Road.
General enquiries: info@belfastmusicsociety.org