Your Complete Guide to the Harrogate International Sunday Series 2026 Grand Finale

Imagine a Sunday morning, but instead of the usual rush, it’s filled with incredible live music from two of the best musicians around. That’s what’s on the cards for the grand finale of the 2026 Harrogate International Sunday Series. It’s all coming to a close with a massive celebration of classical music, and the headline performers are cellist Anastasia Feruleva and pianist Frank van de Laar. These two are set to give one of the standout performances of the year in Harrogate, bringing a brilliant season of concerts to an unforgettable end on 19 April. This final recital isn't just another event; it's the culmination of a series that has consistently brought world-class talent to the heart of North Yorkshire.

So, what’s happening at the Old Swan Hotel?

The Harrogate International Sunday Series has built a brilliant reputation for its coffee morning concerts, creating a relaxed vibe where people can enjoy top-tier classical music. This final event, the grand finale, is happening at the famous Old Swan Hotel, a place with its own long and interesting history. The whole series has been a showcase for some of the most exciting and dynamic musicians on the planet, cementing the reputation of Harrogate International Festivals for putting on seriously impressive events. This final chamber music concert is all about the special connection between the cello and the piano. When played together by masters, these two instruments can tell stories without a single word. The upcoming recital by Anastasia Feruleva and Frank van de Laar is expected to be a perfect example of this powerful partnership, offering a morning of truly memorable music.

For this special event, the duo is travelling all the way to the UK, which makes their appearance in Harrogate even more exclusive. The performances in the Sunday Series are known for their intimate and powerful atmosphere, and this final show promises to be no exception. It’s a chance to see two exceptional musicians in a beautiful setting, doing what they do best. It’s more than just a concert; it’s an experience that highlights why Harrogate is a key destination for lovers of classical music.

A bit about the star performers

So, who are these two musicians lighting up the stage? First, there’s Anastasia Feruleva, who has been described as one of the most promising cellist talents of her generation. Anastasia’s stage presence is said to be completely captivating, something she developed during her early performances. Though she’s now based in the Netherlands, she continues to get amazing reviews, with one German newspaper praising her “convincing, passionate and captivating interpretations.”

Partnering with her is the award-winning pianist Frank van de Laar. His skill isn't just limited to one style; he’s known for his incredible versatility, which has earned him awards at international competitions all over the world. He has performed for audiences globally and has an impressive catalogue of over 35 acclaimed recordings to his name. Having so many recordings shows just how respected he is in the world of classical music. Together, Anastasia Feruleva and Frank van de Laar are a powerhouse duo, and their collaboration for this recital is a massive treat for North Yorkshire audiences. Their combined talent is set to produce some truly exceptional music.

A musical menu featuring legends

The programme for this grand finale is like a greatest hits of classical music, featuring pieces from some of history’s most brilliant composers. The duo will be performing a thrilling mix of music that spans different eras and styles. Here’s a little taster of what’s in store:

• Mendelssohn: They will play his Song without Words Opus 109. This was the last piece Felix Mendelssohn wrote for cello and piano, so it’s full of emotion and history. It’s like hearing a final, beautiful thought from a genius.

• Chopin: Audiences will hear Frédéric Chopin’s Introduction and Polonaise Brillante Op.3. This was one of the first pieces Chopin ever had published, so it’s a glimpse into the mind of a young master finding his voice.

• Astor Piazzolla: To mix things up, they are performing Le Grand Tango by the Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla. This isn't your typical classical piece. It blends traditional tango rhythms with jazzy, off-beat sounds, creating something fiery and completely unique.

And that’s not all. The recital will also include works by other giants of classical music, including Schubert, Saint-Saëns, and Schumann. This carefully chosen selection of chamber music ensures a journey through a wide range of moods, from the deeply romantic pieces by Mendelssohn and Chopin to the passionate energy of Astor Piazzolla. It's a programme designed to showcase the incredible range of both the piano and the cello, and the skill of the musicians bringing the pieces to life.

Harrogate’s place in the music world

This event isn't just a one-off; it’s part of what makes Harrogate such a special place for the arts. The Harrogate International Festivals team works all year round to bring world-class talent to the town. Sharon Canavar, the Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, is clearly thrilled about this final concert.

“I can’t think of a better way to round off another thrilling Sunday Series than with Anastasia and Frank – two brilliant and unmissable performers,” she said. “Once again, these unique recitals have showcased the talents of some of the world’s most gifted, boundary-shaping musicians, a reminder that Harrogate is a spiritual home for classical music in the North.”

The festival’s work solidifies Harrogate’s status as a cultural hub in North Yorkshire. And the music doesn’t stop here. Sharon Canavar added,

“This is the first of our classical music programming in 2026. Tickets for this summer’s HACS Harrogate Music Festival are now on sale, so there are many more fantastic performances still to come.”

It's clear that the Harrogate International Festivals team is committed to a year-round calendar of brilliant events.

Your ticket to the grand finale

Feeling tempted? This final performance in the Sunday Series is shaping up to be a must-see event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience live classical music performed by two outstanding international musicians, Anastasia Feruleva from the Netherlands and Frank van de Laar. Here are the essential details:

• Event: Anastasia Feruleva & Frank van de Laar Recital Series (Harrogate International Sunday Series Grand Finale)

• Date: 19 April 2026

• Time: 11:00am

• Venue: Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate

• Booking: Visit harrogateinternationalfestivals.com or call the box office

This recital is the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning. It’s a chance to get lost in the music of masters like Mendelssohn and Chopin, performed by a world-class cellist and pianist duo. Don’t miss out on this fantastic end to the season.