Nocturnes – Susan Tomes

in conversation with Robert Philip
Fri 23 October, 2026 at 7:00 pm

Ambient and sleep music have become increasingly popular, but our association between music and sleep is not new. In Nocturnes, Susan Tomes explores the rich cultural history of the music of twilight and sleep. Nighttime music has inspired musicians from John Field and Chopin to Richter, as well as generations of artists and writers. Susan will play some short pieces to illustrate the nocturnes.

Susan Tomes is an award-winning pianist and writer, renowned as a soloist and chamber musician. She is the author of numerous highly acclaimed books, including The Piano and Women and the Piano.

Robert Philip is a broadcaster and author of A Little History of Music.

In association with University of Sheffield Concerts