Clive Wilson, in his introduction to the first Harrogate Festival of Arts and Sciences in 1966, wrote “the Festival must be seen as a developing thing, widening its scope and perhaps shifting its emphasis as the years go by.” Harrogate International Festivals certainly looks very different to how it did over 50 years ago, but our classical and chamber music programme remains at the heart of the Festival.

From our Young Musician series to showcasing the work of globally acclaimed artists, we’re proud of our history of supporting and celebrating the work of musicians at all stages of their careers. The Festival always presents a vibrant mix of established and rising names, and 2024 is no different.

Following an opening concert from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra in The Royal Hall, rising star of the violin world, Esther Abrami, joins us for the first time, performing a mix of traditional and classical repertoire alongside works from her new album Cinema, a collection of her favourite film soundtracks.

Talented choral group Apollo 5 and US-based Grand Symphonic Winds will both perform in the stunning setting of St Wilfried’s Church, whilst the Gildas Quartet and Maxwell Quartet will both take to the Spiegeltent stage.

Festival favourites Oddsocks, the UK’s much loved touring theatre companies, return with their iconic style of outdoor performance to the beautiful grounds of RHS Harlow Carr, and the Festival will close with award-winning young duo, violinist Braimah Kanneh-Mason with guitarist Plínio Fernandes,

From stirring choral music to string quartet in ‘surround sound’, there is something for everyone in this rich and varied programme.

Booking is open for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, the Gildas Quartet and the Maxwell Quartet. Friends of the Festival can book for Esther Abrami, Apollo 5, Grand Symphonic Winds, Oddsocks, and Braimah Kanneh-Mason with Plínio Fernandes, with general booking for these events opening on Tuesday 23 April.