In 1988 Edenbridge Parish Church made the bold decision to install a new organ which, after a considerable effort to raise the necessary funds, was completed and celebrated with a splendid inaugural concert by Paul Hale of Rochester Cathedral, later organist of Southwell Minster.
It was soon realised that the new organ could provide the opportunity for concerts for the general public and the possibility of widening the vision to include every kind of music and instrument. At the time there was no other organisation in Edenbridge offering classical concerts on a regular basis but the idea soon took hold and the St. Peter & St. Paul Music Trust, under the patronage of Lord Astor of Hever, was established. With the success of concerts and the widening of public interest, the name was changed to Edenbridge Music & Arts Trust and for over thirty years has remained the flagship for excellent musical events in Edenbridge.
Over the years EMAT has provided many and diverse concerts, including performances by the City of London Chamber Orchestra, under the leadership of Michael Gammie, the annual Summer Jazz al Fresco and also several art exhibitions. These have remained popular with a regular audience from a wide area although they have inevitably been curtailed by the Covid pandemic. However the Trust, under the Chairmanship of Charles Talbot, remains committed to fulfilling its purpose in providing beautiful and affordable music for our community and we look forward to welcoming you once again.