Highgate International Chamber Music Festival 2025 Brings Together Classical and Folk Music, Live Film Scores, and a Diverse Line-Up in London: Here’s More New Information To Know

Published on November 21, 2025

In the heart of London, the Highgate International Chamber Music Festival is returning in 2025 for its 13th edition, promising to deliver an extraordinary blend of classical masterpieces, folk music from across the globe, and even a live-scored silent film. From December 3rd to 7th, 2025, music lovers from around the world will gather at St. Anne’s Church in Highgate for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty of live performance and cultural diversity. The festival’s rich history and commitment to showcasing world-class musicians make it a significant event in London’s cultural calendar, with far-reaching impacts on both the local community and tourism.

With more than 20 exceptional musicians taking the stage, the festival’s 2025 lineup is poised to captivate audiences with its remarkable diversity. Baroque violin, Schubert Lieder, folk music, and a live accompaniment to a silent film will combine to create an eclectic program that spans centuries of musical tradition. In this article, we explore how this festival, through its global appeal and innovative programming, not only enhances London’s cultural tourism but also helps establish the city as a premier destination for music tourism.

The Highgate Festival: A Cultural Highlight in North London

Held in Highgate, a historic district in North London, the Highgate International Chamber Music Festival has become a celebrated cultural event in the city. The festival has a deep connection with the area, drawing both local residents and international visitors to the intimate setting of St. Anne’s Church, an architectural gem known for its incredible acoustics and historical significance. The choice of Highgate as the festival’s venue enhances the overall experience for attendees, offering them the chance to immerse themselves in London’s rich cultural and musical heritage.

In addition to the world-class performances, the festival allows visitors to explore the charming streets of Highgate, with its unique blend of Victorian architecture, local boutiques, and quaint cafes. For those attending the festival from outside London, the event offers a chance to enjoy both artistic performances and the local cultural atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for cultural tourism.

Beyond the music, Highgate’s proximity to famous landmarks such as Hampstead Heath and Highgate Cemetery—where famous figures like Karl Marx and George Eliot are buried—makes it an ideal base for exploring the historical and cultural wonders of London. Attending the festival, therefore, becomes not only a celebration of music but also an enriching experience that allows visitors to engage with the city’s broader cultural narrative.

Diverse Programming: From Classical to Folk and Film

One of the highlights of the 2025 Highgate International Chamber Music Festival is its innovative programming, which blends traditional classical pieces with world folk music and a live-scored silent film. The diversity in musical genres is a testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing the broad spectrum of global music and making it accessible to all. The program is carefully curated to cater to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there is something for every music lover.

The opening night on December 3rd will feature Julian Bliss, a renowned clarinetist, performing Coleridge-Taylor’s Clarinet Quintet alongside Benjamin Marquise Gilmore, leader of the London Symphony Orchestra. This performance is expected to set the tone for the festival, with its powerful blend of orchestral and chamber music. Such performances are not only crucial in showcasing the incredible talent within the classical music world but also play an important role in elevating London’s reputation as a global hub for classical music tourism.

On December 5th, pianist James Baillieu and soprano Erika Baikoff will present Schubert Lieder by Candlelight, creating a magical atmosphere that is sure to enchant audiences. Schubert’s lieder, known for their emotional depth and musical beauty, will resonate within the intimate confines of St. Anne’s Church, further highlighting the unique appeal of the venue for those seeking an immersive classical music experience.

For those with a more adventurous musical ear, December 4th will offer a unique opportunity to experience folk music in an entirely new light. The concert, titled “Folklore: A Journey Around the Globe”, will feature Rakhi Singh of the Manchester Collective, who will lead a diverse ensemble through a performance blending traditional classical instruments, electric bass, African drums, and mesmerizing vocals. The fusion of global folk traditions will open up a world of sound that contrasts yet complements the classical offerings throughout the festival.

The inclusion of folk music in the festival’s lineup highlights how music festivals like this one are increasingly focusing on diversity and global collaboration, reflecting a broader trend in cultural tourism where visitors seek out experiences that blend traditional art forms with contemporary and experimental approaches.

The Role of Live-Scored Silent Film: A Unique Festival Experience

One of the most exciting additions to this year’s Highgate International Chamber Music Festival is the live-scored silent film event, which will undoubtedly attract both film buffs and music enthusiasts alike. The combination of visual storytelling and live music creates a unique and immersive experience that appeals to both art forms. Silent films, with their powerful visual language, paired with live music, offer a compelling way to engage audiences and create a dynamic cultural experience.

For tourists and visitors, this segment of the festival will be particularly attractive, as it offers a rare opportunity to experience silent cinema with live accompaniment—a tradition that harks back to the early days of cinema but is seldom seen today. The inclusion of this performance will allow visitors to explore the fascinating intersection between cinema and live music, making the festival even more appealing to those looking for a multifaceted cultural experience in London.

The Impact on London’s Music and Cultural Tourism

The Highgate International Chamber Music Festival not only celebrates music but also plays a vital role in London’s broader cultural tourism sector. The festival attracts international visitors, enriching the city’s tourism offerings and reinforcing its status as one of the most important cultural capitals in the world. As more tourists seek out authentic and immersive cultural experiences, events like the Highgate festival play a crucial role in helping visitors connect with the city’s rich musical and historical heritage.

By offering a diverse range of musical genres—from Baroque and Schubert Lieder to global folk music and silent film scoring—the festival appeals to a wide audience, ensuring its relevance and continued growth in the competitive world of international music festivals. It also provides an opportunity for tourists to discover and enjoy the city beyond its famous landmarks, engaging with London in a deeper and more personal way.

A Destination for Music Lovers

For those traveling to London for the festival, the experience extends far beyond the concert halls. Highgate’s charming streets, its proximity to some of London’s most famous cultural landmarks, and the overall festival atmosphere make it a wonderful destination for those seeking a rich, multi-layered experience. With every concert and performance, the festival not only showcases the power of music to unite and inspire but also offers a chance for travelers to immerse themselves in the London cultural scene.

The 2025 Highgate International Chamber Music Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community. For both visitors and locals, it is an opportunity to experience the magic of live music in an intimate setting while exploring the unique cultural fabric of North London. By offering such a diverse range of musical experiences, the festival continues to solidify its place as a key event in the London music tourism calendar, and a must-attend experience for any music lover visiting the city.