Artistic Director’s Welcome
Hello and welcome to the Ryedale Festival 2022 – a season of inspiring performances in beautiful and historic locations across North Yorkshire.
Artists in residence include Roderick Williams, the Maxwell Quartet, The Gesualdo Six, National Youth Choir and Philharmonia Baroque. The programme mingles legendary performers such as Dame Janet Baker with stars of the new generation such as the Kanneh-Masons. Internationally renowned soloists and chamber musicians are heard in intimate surroundings and a friendly atmosphere. Sir Mark Elder conducts Verdi at York Minster. And concerts in famous and spectacular venues are balanced with daytime recitals in some of Ryedale’s quietest and most beautiful corners.
The festival finds a special place for the music of Handel, including a pop-up production of his magical little opera Acis and Galatea that will visit three of the region’s most beautiful and ancient churches. Also in focus: the music and legacy of Vaughan Williams in his 150th anniversary year, the genre-blending brilliance of Errollyn Wallen, and the 50th birthday of Swedish supergroup ABBA.
Among six world premieres, Looking West by Julian Philips is inspired by the ancient stories and landscapes of northern England, Roxanna Panufnik’s Babylonia goes on an imaginative journey to the Middle East, and Joseph Howard’s community song cycle Seven Mercies celebrates the heritage and local talent of Pickering.
Literary events include a visit from the poet and author Lemn Sissay. Family concerts include a musical version of the modern children’s classic Izzy Gizmo. Also in the festival collage: jazz, folk, talks, masterclasses, a Dementia-friendly concert, a ‘Troubadour Trail’, late-night candlelit concerts, one of Yorkshire’s best brass bands, and an invitation to Come and Sing.
First-time ticket-buyers can come to selected events for only £10. Under 18s for only £5. And all are invited to enjoy the additional content that will be shared on our digital platform RyeStream.com, which offers a window on the festival, another way to engage.
If you’d like to support our work, please consider making a donation.
I hope you find lots to uplift you in the festival and look forward to seeing you there.
– Christopher Glynn
