The Harrogate International Sunday Series - Matilda Lloyd Concert

Let’s be honest, Sunday mornings are a bit special. They’re made for a proper brew, a bit of a lie-in, and maybe catching up with friends. But what if you could add a bit of world-class music to the mix? Well, in Harrogate, you can.

An absolutely brilliant concert is coming up as part of the Harrogate International Sunday Series, featuring a musician who is taking the classical world by storm. Award-winning trumpet player Matilda Lloyd is returning to the town, and she’s bringing the incredible Goldmund Quartet with her for a morning of unforgettable music on Sunday, 8 February.

A trumpet player at the top of her game

You know when someone is just really, really good at what they do? That’s Matilda Lloyd. She’s not just any musician; she’s been described by BBC Music Magazine as a “trumpeter extraordinaire.” And it’s easy to see why. Back in 2014, she won the brass competition at the prestigious BBC Young Musician of the Year, which is a massive deal for any young player. Since then, her career has been on a meteoric rise. She’s now what’s known as an ECHO Rising Star, performing in some of the biggest and best venues across Europe. On top of that, she’s a Professor of Trumpet at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London. It’s fair to say she knows her way around a trumpet.

As if that wasn’t enough, Matilda has also just been shortlisted for Young Artist of the Year at the Royal Philharmonic Society Awards for 2026. These awards are basically the BAFTAs of the classical music world, so getting a nomination is a huge nod to her talent.

The upcoming concert in Harrogate is a fantastic chance to see this incredible player live. It’s one thing to hear music on your headphones, but seeing a performer like Matilda Lloyd command the stage is something else entirely. She was last in town in 2022, and she’s clearly excited to be back, saying, “I really love the town, and it will be lovely to come back and play in a completely new venue.”

What kind of music can you expect?

The programme for this concert is a brilliant mix of the famous and the yet-to-be-discovered. The trumpet will take centre stage, leading the audience through pieces by some of the all-time greats. There will be the genius of Bach, the beautiful elegance of Haydn, and the jazzy, energetic sounds of Gershwin. It’s a real journey through different musical styles, all expertly performed. The collaboration between a solo trumpet and the Goldmund Quartet is set to be a highlight, creating a rich sound that’s perfect for a Sunday morning.

But what’s really special about this concert is its celebration of work from two amazing female composers who don’t always get the spotlight they deserve: Pauline Viardot and Marianna Martines. For years, music by women was often overlooked, so it’s fantastic that these festivals are bringing their work to new audiences. Hearing pieces by Pauline Viardot and Marianna Martines is a chance to discover something new and appreciate the incredible talent of these historical figures. This isn't just a concert; it's a musical education, all wrapped up in a brilliant performance.

Meet the Goldmund Quartet

Joining Matilda on stage will be the Goldmund Quartet, a group renowned across the globe for their exceptional performances. They are masters of chamber music, which is basically music written for a smaller group of instruments. Think of it as a conversation between musicians, where every note and every player matters.

It’s incredibly detailed and personal, and the Goldmund Quartet are some of the best in the business. They’re known for playing everything from classical masterpieces to modern, contemporary pieces, so they are the perfect partners for a dynamic player like Matilda Lloyd.

This event, part of the wider Harrogate International Festivals programme, promises a unique blend of sound. A string quartet and a trumpet aren't a combination you hear every day, which makes this concert all the more exciting. It’s a chance to experience familiar classics and new discoveries in a completely fresh way. The intimate setting of the venue will only add to the magic, making you feel like you're right there in the middle of the musical conversation.

The perfect setting for Sunday morning coffee concerts

All the concerts in the Sunday Series take place at the historic Old Swan Hotel. It’s a venue with a lot of character and provides the perfect intimate setting for this kind of performance. Forget massive, impersonal arenas; this is about getting up close to the music. The idea behind these coffee concerts is to create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where people can enjoy exceptional music without any fuss. You can grab a coffee, sit back with friends, and just let the sounds wash over you.

Sharon Canavar, the Harrogate International Festivals Chief Executive, is thrilled to have such high-calibre artists performing. She said: “Matilda Lloyd is an incredible trumpet player, and we are delighted to welcome her back to Harrogate. The Sunday Series has a rich tradition of showcasing some of the world’s most gifted classical musicians and both Matilda and the Goldmund Quartet certainly fit into this category.” It’s clear that this event is a highlight in the town's cultural calendar, bringing top-tier talent to local audiences.

How to get your tickets

This brilliant musical experience is happening at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate on Sunday, 8 February, starting at 11 am. It’s the perfect way to make your weekend feel a bit more special. If you fancy swapping your usual Sunday routine for something truly memorable, getting tickets is easy.

Tickets are available directly from the Harrogate International Festivals website. Alternatively, you can give the Box Office a call to book your spot. The number for the Box Office is 01423 562 303. These coffee concerts are really popular, so it’s probably a good idea to book in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on seeing the amazing Matilda Lloyd and the fantastic Goldmund Quartet right here in Harrogate.