The Milton Keynes branch of UK Friends of Standing Together has organised a night of live music to raise funds, and awareness, for Standing Together.

Event organiser Andrew Gilbert writes:

“Like all of us in UKFoST, I’m appalled at the cruelty of the Netanyahu government in its perpetuation of the war and the increasing violence on the West Bank.

“I feel helpless to do anything about it other than the only tool at my disposal; playing music and organising fundraising concerts.

“So I’m staging the first ever concert specifically to raise funds for Standing Together. Milton Keynes might not be close to you, but you would be more than welcome if, like me, you want to do something but don’t know what. Making the journey might be an inconvenience, but you’d know that you were doing something positive for peace.

 “What does it cost and how to get tickets? There are no tickets; entrance is by voluntary donation. You walk in and put what you can afford in the box!

“What kind of show is it? I’m drawing on the talent pool of One World Club, which I run, so the line up consists of mixed cultures and languages, including Barbara Borts (a singing Rabbi!); Turkish folk group The Anatolie Club; oud player, Mo Ghrab; and my band of mixed cultures, The Grand Union, the name of the canal that connects Milton Keynes with London and Birmingham (I don’t recommend coming by narrow boat, it’s probably faster to walk!).

“Where is it? Great Linford Memorial Hall, Marsh Drive, Milton Keynes MK14 5AX. There is free parking and vegan refreshments on sale, including savoury pies and home-made cakes. There is no bar, so people who don’t drink should also feel welcome.

“Doors: 6.45pm for 7.30. Arrive early to claim your seat/s. The event will be finished by 10pm. If you’re worried about travelling a distance and not being able to get in, come before doors officially open. If you come as early as 5pm you can help put chairs out!

“Although a music teacher in Israel in 1976, I’m not Israeli and have no influence there, other than standing together with Friends of Standing Together to put pressure on the government to stop the fighting and dehumanisation of Palestinians.”

Posted 1 June 2025