Experience the Magic of Music in the Surrey Hills
Join us for an unforgettable journey through classical music, featuring world-renowned artists and captivating performances in stunning venues.
Unparalleled Performances
Witness breathtaking performances by leading musicians from around the globe.
Iconic Venues
Enjoy concerts in unique settings that enhance the musical experience.
Celebrating the Surrey Hills International Music Festival
Founded in 2010 by Wu Qian and Tessa Marchington, the Surrey Hills International Music Festival has grown from a weekend of music-making into a vibrant fortnight of events each May. Attracting top-tier artists like Nicola Benedetti and Dame Sarah Connolly, the festival has become a cornerstone of the classical music scene. Our diverse venues, from historic country houses to baroque churches, provide intimate settings that engage audiences with the music. As a registered charity, we support local music education through initiatives like the String Scheme, offering vital exposure to music for young students. Join us in celebrating our 17th season with a special programme that includes the Surrey Hills Young Composer Competition.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Wu Qian
Artistic Director
Julia Pearson
Chairman
Tracy Lees
Festival Manager
Explore Our Unique Venues
Our festival venues are as diverse as the performances themselves, offering a unique blend of history and acoustics. From the grandeur of historic country houses to the serene beauty of baroque churches, each location is carefully selected to enhance the musical experience. Enjoy intimate chamber music in cozy chapels or lively jazz sessions in picturesque vineyards, ensuring every concert is a memorable event.
A Festival of Growth and Innovation
Since its inception, the Surrey Hills International Music Festival has grown exponentially, evolving from a weekend event into a two-week celebration of music and culture. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement. Each year, we introduce new events, including young artist showcases and educational workshops, broadening our reach and impact.
Celebrating Artistic Excellence
Our festival is renowned for bringing together world-class musicians and emerging talents, creating a dynamic platform for artistic exchange. With a diverse lineup that spans classical, jazz, and contemporary genres, we offer something for every music lover. Join us in celebrating the transformative power of music in the stunning setting of the Surrey Hills.
Festival Schedule
Day 1
27th June 2024
Opening Gala Concert
11AM - 1PM
Jazz Under the Stars
3PM - 5PM
Young Artists Showcase
7PM - 9PM
Day 2
28th June 2024
Chamber Music Delight
11AM - 1PM
Choral Masterpieces
3PM - 5PM
Evening with the Sitkovetsky Trio
7PM - 9PM
Festival Evolution Timeline
Our journey began with a vision to create a world-class music festival in the heart of Surrey Hills. Over the years, we have grown in scope and reputation, becoming a cornerstone of the classical music scene.
2010
Inaugural Festival
The festival was founded by Wu Qian and Tessa Marchington, marking the beginning of a new cultural tradition in Surrey Hills with a weekend of exceptional performances.
2014
Expanding Horizons
We expanded our programming to include educational workshops and community events, fostering a deeper connection with our audience and local schools.
2018
New Venues Introduced
To accommodate our growing audience, we introduced new venues, each chosen for its unique ambiance and acoustic qualities, enhancing the overall festival experience.
2020
Virtual Engagement
In response to global challenges, we launched virtual concerts and interactive sessions, reaching a wider audience and maintaining our commitment to accessible music.
2022
Young Composer Competition
We hosted the inaugural Surrey Hills Young Composer Competition, showcasing the talents of emerging composers and providing them with invaluable exposure.
2024
Celebrating 15 Years
Marking our 15th season, we curated a special program featuring renowned artists and new commissions, celebrating our journey and looking towards the future.