Music events in Dorset

If you seek laid back jazz, lively bands, quirky folk music or chart topping hits, we’ll get your feet tapping in Dorset.

Whatever your taste in music, we can guarantee there will be a musical event that you’ll being queuing to get tickets for.

Now, who said Dorset was quiet?

Music to your ears

We've got festivals and music events for all tastes, whether you like a bit of folk, reggae, pop or perhaps classical or more up your street, Dorset has it all....and in some of the most wonderful settings!

From stunning abbeys to picturesque castle grounds you will be in tune with your sense with music in your ears and a beautiful sight for your eyes.

Kick back with a cocktail and listen to some smooth jazz

Dorset is no stranger to the odd jazz festival or two! With festivals featuring bands from across most of the spectrum of jazz, from New Orleans to contemporary sounds, with lots of leading names as well as new faces you're sure to find one to tap along to.

What better than to spend a weekend on the coast, listening to your favourite melodies played by some of the country’s best talent and soaking up the atmosphere and entertainment?

Raise your hands in the air for Camp Bestival!

Camp Bestival's live music selection covers all bases from rock to pop and way beyond, with brilliant and diverse headliners each year.

This festival has families at it's heart and there's loads for everyone to enjoy whatever age.

Past line ups have included Jess Glynne, Fatboy Slim, Beckie Hill and Blondie plus the very best in new music and lots of sing-along favourites too.

Whether you're young or just young at heart, there's a live act that will get you jumping, so we'll see you down the front!

Partied out?

If you’re dancing the night away, then you’ll need a place to stay.

We can help you find accommodation in Dorset whether you need a hotel for the night or a cottage for the week.

Apr 25

Adele Tribute by Jax Hall on Bournemouth Pier

After a sold-out show in 2023, Jax Hall is returning to Key West! Experience the magic as Jax performs all your favourite Adele hits from the timeless Skyfall and Hello to the unforgettable Someone...

Apr 25

MVT Fundraiser Bournemouth

Hi, I'm Charlie Smith, an Alternative Acoustic artist from Hampshire, UK. In April, I will be embarking on my spring tour fundraising for the Music Venue Trust. This will include six different...

Apr 25

Paul Carrack

Bournemouth International Centre

Carrack's new album, recorded in Nashville, marks a deeply personal milestone, offering a heartfelt tribute to the music that shaped him. Titled The Country Side of Paul Carrack, the record...

Apr 25

Sound of Movement

'Sound of Movement' are a unique and engaging collective of musicians and dancers who push the boundaries of contemporary jazz, classical, afrobeat and dance.Members of the collective...

Apr 25

The songs of Sandy Denny and Nick Drake

The Songs of Nick Drake and Sandy Denny Nick Drake and Sandy Denny possessed unique voices that created haunting and melancholic personal songs. Influenced in the 60s by the emergence of acoustic...

Apr 25

University Music Choral & Orchestral Concert

University Music Bournemouth Choir and Orchestra present 'Towards the Light' on Saturday 25th April, 7.30pm in Christchurch Priory. The Programme includes Ola Gjeilo's evocative...

Apr 26

Ambient afternoon

Museum of East Dorset

Do you like the music of Robert Fripp or Brian Eno? Chilling out to relaxing music in a garden setting? If so, this is for you! An afternoon of ambient music concerts, in the garden of the Museum of...

Apr 26

Bournemouth Chamber Music Society

Violinist Sophie Rosa and pianist Ian Buckle will play Sonatas by Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Grieg and Three Romances by Clara Schuman. Sophie enjoys a varied career as a soloist, director and chamber...

Apr 26

Isle 45 live at The Ollerod

Join Tricky, Andy & Andy (not a typo), the fabulous trio from Isle-43, for a wonderful afternoon of Acoustic Tunes. 3pm-6pm Crust & Cow will also be serving up some of their delicious dishes!

Apr 26

Singing Bowl Soundbath

Lie down, relax, and allow the Pure Sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath plus sacred vocal overtoning give you a sonic deep-tissue massage, taking you into the deeper brainwave states of...

Apr 26

Slate String Quartet recital - Voices in Conversation

Our next fabulous Broadstone Music Series professional recital Sunday 26 April - 4pm at Broadstone Methodist Church with its comfortable seating & including our popular interval tea & cake....

Apr 29

An English Song Winterreise

Lighthouse Poole Arts and Entertainment

Join Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra's Artist-in-residence Roderick Williams on stage at Lighthouse, Poole for a special performance with soloist Christopher Glynn, on Wednesday 29 April. Using the...

Apr 30

Quiz Cruise with Ultimate Party Nights

Enjoy mini prizes throughout the night – including free shots, bar tabs and exclusive vouchers – plus a grand prize of a £100 Coastal Vibes gift voucher for the winning team. Step aboard for a...

Apr 30

Sherborne Abbey Festival

Sherborne Abbey

Sherborne's annual Abbey Music Festival takes places from 30 April to 7 May 2026. With another full programme of music concerts, venues include Sherborne Abbey, Cheap Street...

May 01

Beethoven's Fifth. Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Benevolent Fund

In the glorious setting of Christchurch Priory, our special fundraising concert features works from some of the great masters of melody, performed by the musicians of the Bournemouth Symphony...

May 01

May Day Kiddies' Keilidh

Come and celebrate May Day with the bright and colourful Tatterdemalion accompanying dances especially chosen so younger families can enjoy some gentle folk dancing.

May 01

Roland Gift Presents 40 Years of Songs by Fine Young Cannibals

Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre

As they celebrate 40 fine years, the band's biggest chart hit, and their first No1 in the USA, 'She Drives Me Crazy' has become the hottest track on everyone's lips in 2025 so far, as...