A huge thank you to everyone who supported the Festival this summer. It was an inspiring fortnight, with 65 concerts in 30 venues, including nine new locations, record ticket sales and a week of broadcasts on BBC Radio 3. Highlights included the launch of our three-year partnership with John Wilson and Sinfonia of London, a new scheme giving young people the chance to get involved behind the scenes at the Festival, and a King’s Award for Voluntary Service nomination recognising the contribution of our remarkable volunteers.
Now our thoughts turn to Christmas by Candlelight, with two wonderful concerts to look forward to in December.
First, Royal Northern Sinfonia, directed by the violinist Maria Włoszczowska, takes us on a winter journey through northern Europe, with music by Grieg and Sibelius alongside haunting Scandinavian folk melodies. Then the outstanding vocal ensemble Apollo5 brings us Christmas Lights, a festive programme ranging from Renaissance motets and traditional carols to music by Poulenc, John Rutter and Coldplay.
Both concerts take place in beautiful Yorkshire churches, illuminated by candlelight, with seasonal refreshments to complete the occasion. I can’t think of a better way to welcome the festive season.
I look forward to seeing you there.

Christopher Glynn
Artistic Director
‘the innovative and ever-expanding Ryedale festival…As a display of daring artistic imagination, it could hardly be bettered’
‘visionary…with bucketfuls of energy, teamwork and ideas’
‘dynamic and distinctive…and packed with superstars’
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‘an embarrassment of riches’
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‘the global reach of this prestige festival … there are few events in the country with the stunning reputation of the Ryedale Festival’
‘A festival immersed in its local community but of international quality’
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