Bristol Distinguished Address Series
Finding sanctuary in music: Inside the work of Dovetail Orchestra
Key Information:
- Date and time
- Wed 11 March 2026
18:00 - 21:00 - Location
- Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Further info
- Contact
- Events Team events@uwe.ac.uk
- Cost
- Free
- Attendance
- Booking required
Description
Sanctuary through sound: what is it about making music together that provides an immediate sense of belonging, dignity, and connection? And how does Dovetail Orchestra, a charity based in Bristol, Cardiff, and London that works with people who have been displaced from all over the world, make the most of that potential?
Join us for a discussion and unique practical insights into this question with Dovetail Orchestra's artistic director, Dr Jonathan James, joined by members of the orchestra for live demonstrations of key ideas.
With perspectives on musical creativity, social identity, cross-cultural learning, and the deeper meaning of sanctuary, this event is ideal for anyone interested in current issues around asylum and the power of music to bring people together.
The event is delivered in collaboration with the Centre for Music (CFM), a UWE Bristol organisation championing accessible and diverse musical practice, as part of their Festival of Sound programme.
Programme
- 18:00 - Arrival and registration at Arnolfini
- 18:30 - Event starts at Arnolfini
- 19:15 - Q&A
- 19:30 - Live performance
- 19:50 - Event ends
- 19:50-21:00 - Networking and drinks.
Registration and tickets
You can attend this event in person or watch the recording afterwards. Please note this event will not be livestreamed.
Please only register if you plan to attend in person. Registered attendees will receive further information on how to access the event a few days in advance.
If you would like to watch the event recording, please keep an eye on our webpage or join our mailing list, and we'll let you know when it becomes available.
- Cost: Free
- Attendance: Booking required
Accessibility
UWE Bristol welcomes all abilities/disabilities, ages, ethnicities, and genders to our events. If you have any questions, concerns or additional requirements then please let us know, by contacting events@uwe.ac.uk, so that we can make your time at this event as comfortable as possible.
Venue information
- Disabled parking: No
- Step-free access: Yes
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Assisted Listening: Yes
- Guide/assistance dog-friendly: Yes
- Quiet spaces available: Yes