The St Petroc's Sessions
Immerse yourself in the atmospheric St Petroc's, Cornwall's largest church, to experience live music and entertainment from renowned performers across the country.
These gigs, also known as St Petroc’s Sessions, are a rare opportunity to witness fantastic entertainment in a beautiful 15th century church in the heart of Bodmin.
Organised by intoBodmin and Devon-based promoters Cabaret Voltaire, the St Petroc’s Sessions launched in September 2017 at the inaugural Celebrate Bodmin Festival. They have so far featured acts such as Sam Lee, Hollie McNish, This is The Kit, Fairport Convention, The Cuban Brothers and the Unthanks.
Coming Up:
Kahil El’Zabar Ethnic Heritage Ensemble
26th March 2026 | St Petroc's Church | 7.30pm Doors | £28 (EB £24)
Kahil El’Zabar has been one of the deepest and most forward-thinking artists from Chicago’s renowned improvised music scene for many years. He's played with Stevie Wonder, Cannonball Adderley, Dizzy Gillespie, Nina Simone and Paul Simon. Working in many creative contexts as a member of the boundlessly innovative AACM, El’Zabar founded the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble in 1974, as a way to further explore the connections between African-American music, like jazz, with more traditional African instrumentation and rhythms.
Touring frequently in Europe and the United States, they established a global reputation.
The Ethnic Heritage Ensemble includes trumpeter, Corey Wilkes, tenor saxophonist Kevin Nabors, cellist Ishmael Ali and the compelling presence of Kahil El’Zabar on drum set, hand percussion, Kalimba, and soulful vocalizations.
The Ensemble celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a much acclaimed Album ‘Open Me’ (SpiritMuse Records) and world tour.
Neil Cowley Trio – Built on Bach
9th April 2026 | St Petroc's Church | 7.30pm Doors | £22
Built on Bach is a new live show from the Neil Cowley Trio, exploring the subtle but powerful influence of Johann Sebastian Bach on Cowley’s original music. Rather than reworking or reinterpreting Bach’s compositions or Inventions, the trio use them as a creative jumping-off point — improvising, extemporising, and freely exploring wherever the music leads - revealing Bach’s presence within their own distinctive, unmistakable sound.
St Petroc's Sessions FAQs
How do the tickets work for St Petrocs sessions?
You can get your St Petroc's Session tickets through intoBodmin. The name of the ticket buyer will then be on the door, so give us your name and if it’s on the list, then we'll let you in. Please bring some proof of ID.
How can I get there?
There is no parking at the church, but there are three car parks within a two or three minute walk. They are all free after 4pm. Priory Car Park is the closest. Alternatively, the closest bus stop is opposite the church.
What are the gig timings?
We usually open the church at 7pm, and the gig will normally finish by 11:00pm.
Is the church accessible?
If you have difficulty with steps, please get in touch. There is level access to the venue, but it would be handy if we know in advance.
Will there be a bar?
While you can't bring your own drinks and food into the venue, there will be a pop-up bar. We serve ale, lager, cider, wine, soft drinks and tea and coffee.
What if I want to eat beforehand?
If you want to grab some food beforehand, just over the road is Honey Street, where you can eat at The Weavers pub and the excellent tapas bar No.4. There's The Viraj Indian restaurant on Higher Bore Street and various other takeaways within walking distance.
What should I wear?
St Petroc’s is a large 15th century church. It’s a beautiful venue, but it can be a bit chilly, so dress appropriately.
What is the layout of the venue?
There are no pews; if it is a seated event, the chairs are cushioned; if standing, chairs are available. Please note there are pillars. While you'll always be able to stand at the sides or the back for a better view, if you want to make sure you have good sight lines from a seated position, we advise arriving promptly.
Any other questions?
If you have any other questions, get in touch by emailing emailus@intobodmin.co.uk or message via our social media channels.
Building a Better Bodmin
intoBodmin is a community and arts organisation.
Our mission is:
To enable individuals and communities to access cultural activity, encouraging innovation, participation and partnerships.
To bring vitality into the heart of the town and bring the communities together through accessible and inclusive spaces and activity.
To see the community’s aspirations grow and inspire community pride in the place they live.
CURRENT FUNDERS AND PARTNERS
The Old Library Refurbishment project is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Cornwall Council has been chosen by Government as a Lead Authority forthe fund and is responsible for monitoring the progress of projects funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
