TRENDИG RADAR: Richard J. Birkin Brings Vigils 10th Anniversary to The Wardwick

Derby’s live music calendar is about to deliver something genuinely special. On Saturday 2nd May 2026, Richard J. Birkin returns to the stage for a rare and deeply personal performance, celebrating 10 years of his critically acclaimed album Vigils.

Taking place inside the stunning The Wardwick-the former Central Library housed within Derby Museum & Art Gallery-this isn’t just another gig. It’s an immersive, one-off experience in one of the city’s most atmospheric spaces.

A Landmark Album, Reimagined

Originally marking Birkin’s first release under his own name, Vigils saw him step out from previous projects like Crash of Rhinos and The Little Explorer into a world of hushed piano compositions, cinematic textures and slow-building emotional weight.

Now, for the first time ever, the album will be performed live in full with a string quartet-unlocking its full depth in a way fans have never experienced.

Tracks from Vigils have already travelled far beyond Derby, appearing in The Young Pope (starring Jude Law) and in Loro, centred on Silvio Berlusconi-a testament to the album’s cinematic pull.

A Rare Return to Live Performance

This show carries real weight. After years away from performing due to stage fright, Birkin’s return has been sparked by revisiting Vigils for its 10th anniversary vinyl release. What began as reflection quickly turned into something more urgent-a need to reconnect through live music.

And crucially, it had to be here.

The choice of The Wardwick feels deliberate. Its towering architecture and natural acoustics make it the perfect setting for the fragile intensity and widescreen sound of Vigils.

Local Support, Intimate Energy

Support comes from YAY MARIA, performing a special solo piano set that perfectly sets the tone for the evening.

With additional collaboration from the University of Derby’s sound and lighting department, expect a fully immersive experience-subtle, powerful, and completely absorbing.

Event Details

Event: Richard J. Birkin – Vigils 10th Anniversary Performance
Date: Saturday 2nd May 2026
Location: The Wardwick, Derby Museum & Art Gallery
Doors: 18:30
YAY MARIA: 19:00
Richard J. Birkin: 20:00

Tickets are available now:
https://www.gigantic.com/richard-j-birkin-string-quartet-vigils-10th-anniversary-show-tickets/derby-the-wardwick/2026-05-02-18-30

Listen to the remastered 10th anniversary edition of Vigils:
https://rjbirkin.bandcamp.com/album/vigils-10th-anniversary-remastered

Why It’s On the Radar

TRENDИG RADAR exists for nights exactly like this. Unique settings, meaningful returns, and artists pushing something deeper than just a live set.

This isn’t just a performance-it’s a moment of reconnection. And in a city that thrives on its grassroots culture, this one feels essential.

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