History returns to Harrogate!

Join us at the 2018 Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival and be swept back in time with one of the biggest historical fiction authors, Conn Iggulden, and arguably the UK’s most respected historian, David Starkey. One of the most engaging and often controversial speakers, Starkey will shed new light on our country’s greatest tyrant, Henry VIII.

Historians Sam Willis & James Daybell will take us on a journey of discovery through the entirely unexpected, Julie Summers will bring a behind-the-scenes glimpse of life in Britain’s greatest country houses occupied by people who would never otherwise have set foot there and Harrogate’s foremost historian Malcolm Neesam will explore the role that music has played in the town’s history.

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The renowned Leeds International Piano Competition returns to the city!

6th - 15th September | Leeds Town Hall

Founded in 1963, the Competition attracts the world’s finest young pianists, to compete for one of classical music’s most prestigious titles, and a prize package including £25000, a recording contract with Warner Classics and their own concert tour. Tickets for the Final have now sold out but you can still find some seats for the early rounds at the Leeds Town Hall Box Office or call them on 0113 376 0318.

Learn more about the 24 competitors here and watch their performances in the international heats.

The piano competition organisers are also bringing the piano into the city with the Piano Trail – 12 open access pianos located across Leeds – giving people the chance to hear, play and enjoy the piano for free. Follow the trail and look out for pop-up performances from the competitors and local piano talent alike!

Special event – watch the piano competition final for free in Millennium Square

Live screening of Friday final  7pm - 9.15pm, September 14th. Free, no need for a ticket. Watch three of the final five competitors as they each perform a full concerto with the Hallé Orchestra.  Food and drink will be available in Millennium Square, or bring a picnic (and deck chair too) and enjoy an evening of virtuoso al fresco music for free!

With special thanks to our Partners.....