Red Violin Festival: A HundRED Violins
Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor
This October, whilst some may be looking forward to the more brass fuelled, stein drinking and tent based Autumn activities, Leeds will be consumed by the sound of one of the world’s best loved instruments – the violin. As part of the Red Violin Festival, violinists of all abilities are being invited to come together for a morning workshop followed by three flash mob performances. In total, over one hundred violins will be filling the open acoustic of Leeds Trinity with a newly composed commission by Leeds based violinist and composer James Gerrard.
Red Violin Festival fosters a true sense of collaboration between the classical establishments of Leeds. From Opera North to South Asian Arts, Leeds Conservatoire to local churches there’s plenty to hear, watch, experience and join in with, whether you’re a player of the violin yourself or just an appreciator. You’ll hopefully come away with your idea of what the violin can be having been challenged and your understanding of what noises a violin can make broadened.
James Gerrard is a Leeds based composer who recently graduated from Leeds Conservatoire after studying with Ben Gaunt. Having been an active violinist for decades he’s surely the perfect person to encapsulate the vibe of a city in an instrument he’s so familiar with.
This workshop is just one of the many events happening over the festival. Be sure to also check out the film screenings at the Everyman, several concerts by internationally renowned chamber groups and orchestras at The Venue, Leeds Cathedral and Howard Assembly Rooms. There will also be a performance from the more local Sinfonia of Leeds and Opera North.
Obviously here in Tours and Activities we are also thrilled to see a walking tour as part of the programme. Historian Dr Rachel Unsworth will be leading you through the city to a soundtrack of violin heavy classical bangers and hidden gems.
