Jethro Tull’s recent Christmas concert at Bath Abbey certainly resulted in a financial bonus for our historic parish church.
Band leader Ian Anderson had said he’d not charge a fee and would handle the expenses of his fellow musicians and guests himself. He’s a keen supporter of our ancient places of worship and often performs in such venues up and down the country.
I am hearing the proceeds from this – the Abbey’s fastest-ever sell-out – amount to £15,000 net – but the church will have to pay commission to their booking agents.
The audience were not all local either. People were there from as far away as Florida, and two chaps from the Netherlands turned up early in the morning to see if they could help with the set-up. Seems they follow the band everywhere!
I think the Abbey will be seeking to do more events like this, so 2023 could be even more of a musical feast.
Incidentally, Jethro Tull’s 23rd album is due out in the spring of 2023.
