To celebrate World Refugee Day, join British-Lebanese singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Maya Youssef as she performs music from her latest album, Finding Home.

Hailed as “queen of the qanun,” the 78-stringed Middle Eastern plucked zither, Maya’s intense and thoughtful music is rooted in the Arabic classical tradition but forges pathways into jazz, Western classical and Latin styles.

Join us for an evening of musical delight as we present Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle - a charming and enchanting masterpiece. Rossini’s wit and creativity shine through in this unique composition, where sacred solemnity meets playful brilliance.

You’ll experience delicate harmonies, lively rhythms, and sublime vocal performances from Leeds Festival Chorus and four outstanding soloists. The piece will be accompanied by both piano and accordion.

As the era of Mozart was drawing to a close, Rossini’s was just beginning.

For part of their yearly residency with Opera North, join the Young Artists of the National Opera Studio for a musical exploration highlighting the contrasting styles and enduring legacies of these two great composers.

Directed by Martin Duncan and conducted by Chris Moulds, this semi-staged production features scenes from operas including Le nozze di Figaro, Idomeneo, Die Zauberflöte, Don Giovanni, Guillaume Tell, La cenerentola, and Il turco in Italia.

Immerse yourself in an outdoor experience that transcends conventional concerts, exploring mental well-being through the transformative power of music and nature with SongPath. 

Get In The Mood and join us for a swingin’ night of nostalgia and music. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the 1940s with the 16-piece, Leeds-based Northern Swing Orchestra and special guests, The Honeybirds. This is the ultimate big band show that you won’t want to miss!

The Northern Swing Orchestra, known for its captivating performances and exceptional musicianship, will take centre stage to deliver a showstopping performance that pays homage to the golden age of big band music.

Brudenell Piano Sessions returns to the Howard Assembly Room for an early-summer edition of the ever popular piano-centred live music event. Join us for an enthralling and captivating late-afternoon of live music; an opportunity to enjoy the breadth of music composed for and performed on the piano; all in a relaxed, friendly and engaging atmosphere. It’s piano music; for everyone.

New York-based composer and producer Kelly Moran defies classical norms with a contemporary, experimental approach to the piano.

Her music spans classical, electronic, minimalist, jazz, impressionist, and metal genres. Her upcoming release, Moves in the Field, showcases a unique collaboration with Yamaha’s Disklavier player piano, pushing the boundaries of human and machine interaction. Moran, a sponsored Yamaha artist, skilfully combines her pianistic abilities with the Disklavier’s inhuman capabilities, resulting in virtuosic and multi-layered piano compositions.

For the second in our HAR Late series, a night of minimalist masterpieces. Featuring a cult film screening, an after-dark concert, and a late-night set for voice and electronics. Mesmerising. Intoxicating. Hypnotic.

Combining the “…epic, remarkable cinematography of Ron Fricke with the swelling intensity and repeating motifs of Philip Glass’s celebrated original score” (The Guardian) join us for a screening of iconic masterpiece Koyaanisqatsi (1982).

An opportunity to hear North East Early Music Forum members and their friends perform throughout the day in this magnificent setting.

Programme:

11.30    Leeds Waits                        Late 15th century instrumental

12.00    Cowling Recorders            Renaissance consort

1.30    Dulciana                                Early baroque instrumental

What is the heart of Indian music? What is the power of melody?

Celebrated Sitar maestro and ‘maverick musician’ Niladri Kumar joins us in Leeds for the first time to bring an unparalleled immersive experience to the stage. Showcasing the expanse of classical Indian heritage through this unique, captivating and popularly loved style – he steals the heart and stirs the soul.

Experience music through one of the most revered instruments of India, accompanied by Tabla sensation Yashwant Vaishnav.