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4 Aug 22.00
Classical Music
Violin virtuoso Nicola Benedetti launches the International Festival with a star-studded concert.

Start the Festival season in style with an exciting concert hosted and curated by Festival Director Nicola Benedetti. Following two sold-out years, this highly anticipated evening promises to be just as exhilarating, showcasing a dynamic mixed-bill of exceptional artists, revealed on the night itself.

It’s the perfect introduction to the Festival programme, setting the tone for a season filled with inspiring performances. A true celebration of artistry, this event offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural journey ahead. 

Join us in the relaxed atmosphere of our Festival home at the top of the Royal Mile, where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with leading artists and fellow festival-goers alike.

Maria Teresa von Paradis, arr. James Morgan & Juliette Pochin: Sicilienne

Nicola Benedetti's Ensemble: Nicola Benedetti (violin), Sasha Savaloni (guitar), Sofia Ros (accordion) and Philip Higham (cello)

Monti: Csárdás

Roby Lakatos (violin), Kalman Czeki (piano), Vilmos Csikos (double bass), László Rácz (cimbalom) + Nicola Benedetti (violin) for the Csárdás

Paquito d’Rivera: Aires Tropicales
iv. Vals Venezolano
vi. Contradanza

NYO2 wind ensemble - José-Luis Novo (conductor), Ella Liu (flute), Lela Buck (oboe), Leila Novak Mostaghimi (clarinet), Evelyn Ha (bassoon), Isaac Sprouls (horn)

The Alehouse Sessions and Mamelukk

Barokksolistene

The Scythe Song and This Love Will Carry

Dougie MacLean

Sarasate, arr. Stephen Goss: Carmen Concert Fantasy (3 mvts) and Debussy arr. Simon Parkin: Beau Soir

Nicola Benedetti's Ensemble: Nicola Benedetti (violin), Sasha Savaloni (guitar), Sofia Ros (accordion) and Philip Higham (cello)

Tavener: Song for Athene & Bruckner: Locus Iste

Monteverdi Choir - Jonathan Sells (conductor)

Closing tutti piece - The Osprey into a new arrangement of John Tams Lullee, Lullay by Greg Lawson

All (minus NYO2)