Beethoven Now: Beethoven – The Man at Canford School

Discover the man behind the music at Beethoven Now: Beethoven – The Man at Canford School near Poole on Saturday 31st October 2026 from 1.30pm.

This special afternoon explores Beethoven’s life, music, letters and deafness through live discussion, readings and performances from his string quartets.

The event brings together John Suchet, Samuel West, Dame Evelyn Glennie, Jonathan Dimbleby, Sarah Walker and BSO musicians for a fascinating look at Beethoven beyond his compositions.

If you’re searching for things to do near Poole or an unusual classical music event, this offers something very different from a traditional concert.

At a Glance

What: Beethoven Now – Beethoven: The Man
When: Saturday 31st October 2026
Start time: 1.30pm
Where: Assembly Hall, Canford School
Address: Canford Magna, Poole, BH21 3AD
Featuring: John Suchet, Samuel West, Dame Evelyn Glennie, Jonathan Dimbleby, Sarah Walker and Mark Wigglesworth
Music: Extracts from Beethoven’s string quartets
Musicians: BSO Principals String Quartet
Format: Talks, readings, live music, discussion and audience Q&A

Who Was Beethoven?

Beethoven's music is known around the world, but this event asks audiences to look more closely at the person who created it.

His life will be explored through his own words, with acclaimed stage and screen actor Samuel West reading extracts from Beethoven’s letters.

The readings will be accompanied by excerpts from Beethoven’s string quartets, performed by BSO String Principals.

Together, the music and letters offer an opportunity to explore the experiences and personality behind some of classical music's most enduring works.

John Suchet on Beethoven: The Man Revealed

At 1.40pm, broadcaster and Beethoven aficionado John Suchet will discuss his biography Beethoven: The Man Revealed.

The talk explores Beethoven beyond the familiar image of the troubled musical genius.

For anyone already fascinated by the composer, this promises further insight into his life and character.

It could also provide an accessible introduction for those who know Beethoven's music but little about the man himself.

Dame Evelyn Glennie Explores Deafness and Music

One of the afternoon's most interesting discussions comes at 4pm.

Renowned percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie joins Mark Wigglesworth and Sarah Walker to explore the musical and social implications of deafness.

Beethoven experienced progressive hearing loss during his life, making this an important part of understanding both the composer and his work.

Join the Audience Debate

The afternoon finishes with an audience question and answer session at 5pm, chaired by broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby.

Rather than simply listening to talks and performances, audiences will have the opportunity to engage with the ideas explored throughout the day.

The full afternoon is hosted by Sarah Walker.

Event Schedule

1.30pm: Opening welcome
1.40pm: John Suchet discusses Beethoven: The Man Revealed
2.30pm: Beethoven String Quartets and readings with Samuel West and BSO String Principals
3.30pm: Tea break
4pm: Dame Evelyn Glennie in conversation with Mark Wigglesworth and Sarah Walker
5pm: Audience questions and answers chaired by Jonathan Dimbleby

Good to Know Before You Go

The event takes place in the Assembly Hall at Canford School, Canford Magna, Poole, BH21 3AD.

As the programme runs across the afternoon, allow plenty of time for your visit. A scheduled tea break takes place at 3.30pm.

Anyone with accessibility or specific seating requirements should contact the organisers before booking.

Tickets can be booked through Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra – Beethoven Now.

More Things to Do Near Hampshire

Canford School is in Dorset rather than Hampshire, but its location near the county makes this an accessible event for visitors travelling from parts of Hampshire.

Explore What’s On Hampshire for more classical music, talks, theatre and things to do in Hampshire, alongside attractions and the best family days out in Hampshire.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Beethoven Now: Beethoven – The Man?

The event takes place on Saturday 31st October 2026 from 1.30pm.

Where is the event?

It is held in the Assembly Hall at Canford School, Canford Magna, Poole, BH21 3AD.

Is this a traditional classical concert?

No. The afternoon combines talks, readings, live chamber music, conversations and an audience Q&A.

Who is appearing?

Guests include John Suchet, Samuel West, Dame Evelyn Glennie, Jonathan Dimbleby, Sarah Walker and Mark Wigglesworth, alongside BSO musicians.

Will there be live Beethoven music?

Yes. BSO String Principals will perform excerpts from Beethoven’s string quartets.

Is there a break?

Yes. A tea break is scheduled for 3.30pm.

Can the audience ask questions?

Yes. The afternoon concludes with a Q&A chaired by Jonathan Dimbleby.