Renowned for its usual fare of bringing the best in classical music to the rolling hills of North Yorkshire, a particular gem of this year’s Ryedale Festival strays from this path. The Light Music Afternoon held at Helmsley Arts Centre celebrates the best of the varyingly defined genre. Music with immediate appeal, music with melody, music to entertain, music to enjoy – whatever the preferred definition, one thing for certain is the genius of the two composers showcased, and the enjoyable experiences these concerts will bring at the junction between classical music and showbusiness.
eginning the afternoon at 3pm is husband and wife duo Simon and Saoko Blendis, with their tribute to Max Jaffa, Love Is Like A Violin. Expect a mixture of vivacious gypsy dances, poignant ballads, and rich melodies, all part of this collection of salon pieces that had gone largely forgotten up to now.
Forming the other half of the Light Music Afternoon is A Most Marvellous Party!, showcasing the Songs of Noël Coward, His Friends and Contemporaries. BBC Music Magazine’s 2022 Personality of the Year Nicky Spence and Mary Bevan are accompanied by Joseph Middleton on piano to celebrate the best of light music from across the world, and of course the work of Coward in his 50th anniversary year. An extra matinee performance has been added due to extraordinary demand, so be sure to snap up tickets quickly for this light music extravaganza!
Friday 21st July, 3pm – Max Jaffa – Love is like a violin
Tickets on sale at https://ryedalefestival.com/event/23-max-jaffa-love-is-like-a-violin/
Friday 21st July, 5:30pm – A Most Marvelous Party – Songs of Noël Coward and his Contemporaries
Tickets on sale at https://ryedalefestival.com/event/24a-a-most-marvellous-party-songs-of-noel-coward-and-contemporaries/
Friday 21st July, 8pm – A Most Marvelous Party – Songs of Noël Coward and his Contemporaries
Tickets on sale at https://ryedalefestival.com/event/24a-a-most-marvellous-party-songs-of-noel-coward-and-contemporaries/
Helmsley Arts Centre
Ryedale, North Yorkshire