Love's Messenger

For the first evening recital of 2024, we are delighted to welcome the ever-brilliant baritone Roderick Williams, a ‘raconteur in Lied par excellence’ (Seen and Heard International). He is joined by esteemed pianist Natalie Burch, who is also our Associate Artistic Director this year. Together they perform Schubert’s Schwanengesang (‘Swan Song’), the composer’s final collection of songs. Written in 1828 and published just months after his death, these songs show the composer reaching a new pinnacle in the art form, and leave us wondering what miracles he might have achieved had he lived beyond the age of 31. A thrilling night of music, poetry and artistry to open the Festival.

Generously supported by Bernard & Sarah Taylor