Early music is a precious part of our arts and cultural heritage, but it needs active protection. For over 50 years, LIFEM has championed historic music, world-class artists, young ensembles and specialist instrument makers. Rising costs, stretched arts funding and a very small team make this harder to sustain. Without core support, the year-round work behind the festival is at risk, limiting access, opportunity and the future of early music.

LIFEM’s small team works all year to deliver a world-class festival of early music performance, learning and discovery. Core funding will cover the essential costs behind the scenes: planning, production, marketing and audience development. It will give us the stability to support outstanding artists, young ensembles and specialist makers, preserve early music’s rich legacy and inspire new audiences for generations to come.