Andover Rocks, the beloved music festival dedicated to supporting mental health through music therapy, is set to make a triumphant return on the 28th, 29th, and 30th of March 2025.
Established in 2017, Andover Rocks was created to address the shortage of music therapy options in the town of Andover. Next year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a diverse range of workshops, performances, and activities designed to showcase the vibrant local music scene and provide therapeutic benefits to the community.
The festival, which will span three days, will take place across multiple venues in Andover. Attendees can look forward to a rich programme that includes workshops, live performances by singers and bands, children’s musical theatre, and musical poetry. Each venue will offer a unique experience, giving people the opportunity to explore new creative outlets and discover the wealth of artistic talent within Andover.
Marie, the founder and organiser of Andover Rocks, shared her excitement about the festival’s return. “Over the last two years since it was last held, I’ve been listening to people’s experiences of Andover Rocks and how they missed it. The event was a vibrant addition to the town’s calendar, allowing people to experience new creative ways, listen to new music, and discover new activities like gong baths, meditation, and yoga,” she said. “Rocks highlights what people can access, new services and experiences, and new potential hobbies, all while providing a safe environment for like-minded individuals to meet and support each other in their mental health recovery.”
The community aspect of Andover Rocks is a cornerstone of the event. It aims to bring people together, support local venues, and provide a platform for local artists to showcase their talents. “Andover is a small town, and Rocks brings people together, gets the venues busy again, and supports the acts,” Marie explained. “People can expect it to be bigger than before, with new bands and workshops as well as some surprises. Andover is full of amazing musicians, and we are blessed to have a great music community to bring together for a great cause.”
The last Andover Rocks festival was held in 2021, and the community has eagerly awaited its return. In its inaugural year, the event raised £3,325 for The Junction, funding music intervention in adult mental health.
Marie emphasised the importance of music therapy in mental health recovery. “I don’t think there’s enough funding for music therapy; the importance of it seems to be missed,” she said. “There’s still a huge gap in recovery, and music plays a crucial role in mental health recovery.”
As Andover Rocks gears up for its comeback, the town is buzzing with excitement. The festival not only promises entertainment and community spirit but also aims to make a significant impact on the mental well-being of its attendees. With a better headspace and renewed energy, Marie and her team are ready to reignite this wonderful event, bringing the community together once again for a celebration of music, creativity, and mental health.
