The NOVA Festival was set up in 2021 by Joseph Barker as a way of giving back to the town that raised him, championing young Cornish talent and contributing to the cultural landscape of St Austell.

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In 2022 the festival expanded, adding an extra concert and involving more young musicians from Cornwall and elsewhere, playing a more ambitious programme to a larger audience.

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This year new and returning faces collaborate to present a diverse programme involving not only strings, but also piano, with an instrument kindly provided by Clive Pinkham. We are also very proud to be offering chamber music workshops for children aged 11 - 16 looking to develop their skills, as well as performing for free in local care homes. We pride ourselves on being a genuinely accessible, chilled festival that is enjoyable for both audience and musicians - we cannot wait to see you there!

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