Supporting youth performance has been part of Elderflower Fields since the very beginning of this award-winning family festival. Offering opportunities for the next generation of industry professionals to gain experience and build confidence in a supportive and rewarding environment.
In 2026, in partnership with Wealden District Council and Creative Wealden, youth performance at Elderflower Fields will continue to flourish at the expanded youth artist venue, plus further opportunities across the festival.
In 2026, The Skylark Sessions take centre stage with the arrival of a beautiful new performance venue on Leapfrog Lawns. Showcasing a host of young musicians and music workshops, followed by inspiring performances from established musicians and Elderflower Fields friends from the last 15 years of adventures in the Sussex countryside.
Working with local youth organisations from across Sussex, Elderflower Fields supports youth bands, acoustic artists, DJs, actors and event support crew with the chance to learn and grow among the trees of the Pippingford Estate in the heart of the Ashdown Forest each May.
Wealden District Council is reinvigorating its drive to support creative organisations in the district. In partnership with Elderflower Fields, the youth performance Skylark Stage encourages local young musicians, providing an opportunity for artists to perfect their craft. This development feeds a growing UK music industry, which continues to flourish despite challenges from AI and the closure of grassroots venues and locations locally and more widely across the country.
Visit the What’s On page to find out who’s joining the 15th anniversary celebrations and discover more about the fantastic organisations that support the future of grassroots music and our local next generation superstars.
Thanks to:
Wealden District Council – supporting music artists locally
Hokum & Hooch horsebox and performers – our beautiful new Skylark venue
Rhapsody Artist Development
BN1Arts
Waterbear College
BIMM
Brighton Girls School
