Rising Stars Shine at This Summer’s Harrogate Music Festival

This summer, the HACS Harrogate Music Festival once again showcases the stars of tomorrow through its much-loved Young Musicians Series — an annual highlight that has launched the careers of some of Britain’s most celebrated classical artists.

A Homegrown Talent Returns

Among this year’s exciting line-up is Alannah Saphir, a former St Aidan’s School pupil from Harrogate, who will close the Young Musicians Series with her debut festival performance at the Wesley Centre on 11 July.

Alannah has already gained recognition as Ripon Young Musician of the Year in 2023 and Young Musician of the Festival at the Harrogate Competitive Festival for Music, Speech and Drama in 2024. Her programme for Harrogate audiences includes pieces by Debussy, Chaminade, Doppler and Hüe, and she is keen to showcase the flute’s rich diversity.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Alannah said: “The best thing about performing live is feeling the audience’s response to your interpretation of a piece of music. I hope the audience will enjoy hearing the full diversity and range of the flute as a solo instrument.”

Opening the Series: Trio Concept

This year’s series begins on 27 June with the award-winning Trio Concept. The accomplished Italian ensemble — Lorenzo Nguyen (piano), Edoardo Grieco (violin) and Francesco Massimino (cello) — have performed together since their teenage years and have wowed audiences worldwide, winning major competitions including the Schoenfeld International String Competition in China and the YCAT international auditions at Wigmore Hall.

Their Harrogate concert will feature a beautifully balanced programme of works by Bloch, Ravel and Mendelssohn, promising an evocative morning of chamber music.

A Rising Violin Star

Dutch violinist Charlotte Spruit takes the stage on 4 July at the Wesley Centre. Known for her captivating performances, Charlotte has already graced some of the world’s leading concert halls, including Amsterdam’s Concertgebouw and London’s Wigmore Hall.

Her programme will highlight two great violin sonatas: Beethoven’s lyrical Sonata No. 10 in G major and Schumann’s deeply expressive Violin Sonata No. 2 in D minor.

A Unique Musical Experience

Adding an international flavour, kora player Jali Bakary Konteh completes this year’s line-up. Performing under Luke Jerram’s stunning Gaia installation at St Wilfrid’s Church on 5 July, Jali will bring the magical sounds of the traditional West African kora to life, offering audiences something truly different.

A Festival Tradition

Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, said: “The HACS Harrogate Music Festival has a long and proud tradition of supporting future stars as they set out on their careers. This year is no exception — audiences are in for a real treat.”

To experience these rising stars in Harrogate this summer, book your tickets at www.harrogateinternationalfestivals.com or call the Box Office on 01423 562 303.