Music Lessons: Seven Composers and What They Taught Me
In partnership with the Boswell Book Festival, writer and broadcaster Stephen Johnson returns to Cumnock to discuss his new book Music Lessons: Seven Composers and What They Taught Me.
In conversation with James Knox, Stephen will explore how music often considered ‘dark’ — from Bach to Bowie — has provided him with life-changing insights during difficult times in his own life. A thought-provoking, deeply personal conversation about the power of music to change how we think, feel and live.
Date
Friday 2nd October 2026
3pm
Venue
Dumfries Arms Hotel
Tickets
£10 / £7 / £5
Performers
Stephen Johnson
James Knox
Runtime
Approx. 1 hour
No interval
In partnership with Boswell Book Festival
• What's on
Upcoming highlights
A meeting place for music
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- Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded, except in the event of a cancelled performance. Please ensure you leave your contact details when purchasing tickets.
- Exchanges may be available (at our discretion) for another performance if there are tickets available. No refunds can be made for lower priced tickets, and the difference for higher priced tickets must be paid.
- Events will start at the published time. Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance.
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- Event content and performers may change at short notice, or differ from published details. The Cumnock Tryst reserves the right to change programme details at any point and with no obligation to refund tickets and associated costs.
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- The Cumnock Tryst reserves the right to change a programme, performer or venue due to unforeseen circumstances. If we have to make a change we will contact ticket buyers.
Any remaining tickets will be available on the door at the venue, 45 minutes before each event. Seating is unreserved in all venues. Doors open 30 minutes before each event. The Box Office will operate an advance waiting list for sold out concerts.
Students in full time education and local residents* can receive a discount on tickets for most concerts. Please see individual listings and ticket information details. Proof of entitlement will be required.
Discounts for buying for multiple events:
- 15% discount if you book for 8 paid for events
- 10% discount for 6 paid for events
- 5% discount for 4 paid for events
*Local residents from Cumnock and Doon Valley – Cumnock, New Cumnock, Auchinleck, Bellsbank, Catrine, Coylton, Dalmellington, Dalrymple, Drongan, Hollybush, Logan, Lugar, Mauchline, Muirkirk, Ochiltree, Patna, Rankinston, Smallburn, Sorn, Tarbolton and Waterside with the following postcodes: KA5 5… / KA5 6… / KA6 6… / KA6 7… / KA18 1… / KA18 2… / KA18 3… / KA18 4…