The Origin of Castles and Concerts

Thirty-some years ago a group of a dozen or so friends who had enjoyed traveling together for several years rented a Castle in Scotland for a week. The castle had two or three more rooms than what was needed for the group. Several of the guests were musically inclined and so it was decided to invite along a few musicians to share the fun. The idea was a great success and was repeated the following year at a castle in Ireland.

Word got around, and by the third year there were several new people who wanted to join the group, this time in Italy. It was at this time that Tom and Georgia Montgomery were invited along as musicians/entertainers. It was another success and Tom and Georgia were invited back over the next few years

By then the group had grown too large to be managed informally. And so, about twenty-five years ago, the core members took Tom and Georgia out to dinner and requested that they assume the responsibilities associated with keeping the trips happening as a yearly event. Over the last ten years, their son, Matt Montgomery, has taken on most of these responsibilities. He, along with many active participants in the group continue to create the magic that happens by bringing together friends and music in new places all around the world.

The trips started as a group of friends sharing their joy of travel and music. And many years later, it remains the same. We’ve never advertised and the way new guests can join the group is by invitation from others who have shared this joy. That’s why the opening page of our website has this notice: “Castles and Concerts is a private travel and cultural organization. This site is meant for the exclusive use of this group and their family and friends.”

We hope to see you soon with wonderful friends in another magic place somewhere in the world!