Oxford International Song Festival reveals programme

The Oxford International Song Festival, the UK’s largest festival dedicated to the art of classical song, will take place from October 9 to 24 and feature 59 events in celebration of its milestone year.

Centered around the theme of ‘Love Songs,’ the programme explores love in all its forms through music, poetry and conversation.

More than 150 artists will perform works spanning 800 years, from medieval Armenian songs to romantic masterpieces and new commissions.

Sholto Kynoch, artistic director of the Oxford International Song Festival, said: “When a small group of friends founded this Festival in 2002, none of us imagined where the journey would lead.

“Twenty-five years later, while the Festival has grown enormously, its heart remains exactly the same: a passion for the extraordinary world of song and the friendships that it creates.

“Love lies at the heart of so much great song, and this year’s Festival explores its countless expressions – joyful, heartbreaking, transformative and unexpected.”

The festival opens with a recital by Dame Sarah Connolly and will also include performances by Matthias Goerne, Roderick Williams, Alice Coote and Benjamin Appl.

Three world premieres are scheduled, including works by John Webb, Can Bilir and the festival’s associate composer, Emily Hazrati.

Mr Kynoch said: “As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we also celebrate the wonderful community of artists, audiences and supporters who have shaped the Festival over the past quarter of a century.

“Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning once again, we look forward to welcoming you to Oxford this October.”

The festival will be held in Oxford, including the newly opened Schwarzman Centre, which will host the opening concert.

A special Schubert Weekend will take place from October 17 to 18, exploring the composer’s life and work through immersive performances and discussions.

Chamber concerts, poetry readings and panel talks will also feature throughout the 16-day event.

In keeping with its commitment to accessibility, the festival will offer thousands of tickets for £20 or less, with many events priced between £7 and £10.

There will also be free events and £10 tickets available for anyone under 35.

Full programme details and ticket bookings are available at www.oxfordsong.org.

The box office can also be reached by phone on 01865 591276, Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 1pm.