SPOTLIGHT

Supporting the next generation of artists and thinkers is at the heart of Cheltenham Festivals’ mission. Every year we work with writers, musicians, scientists and composers to give them the space to develop as they forge their careers. This Festival we’re delighted to showcase emerging performers and composers throughout the programme.

Composer Academy

Celebrating its 10th year, Composer Academy will bring a number of outstanding, early-career composers to Cheltenham. With mentorship from composer Daniel Kidane and resident ensemble, The Carice Singers, participants will have their compositions workshopped, performed and recorded, alongside insights from industry guests. Be the first to hear their work at our two Composium showcases on 13 and 14 July (see pages 20 and 22 for details).

Spotlight Concerts

Our Two Spotlight concerts feature Festival debuts from musicians at the very start of their careers. In the serene surroundings of St Gregory’s Church, get to know BBC Music Young Musician of the Year 2022 Jordan Ashman and local Gloucestershire prize-winning musicians on 11 and 12 July (see pages 14 and 18).

BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists

We’re delighted to continue a partnership with the BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists scheme which nurtures some of the world’s finest young musicians as they launch their international careers. Many go on to be well-known names, with alumni including pianist Igor Levit, guitarist Sean Shibe, and the Pavel Haas Quartet. Enjoy fantastic performances from the current cohort at Pittville Pump Room every morning, 10–13 July.

Festival Premieres

Spark your musical curiosity and be one of the first people to hear newly commissioned music throughout the Festival. Look out for new and exciting works from these composers:

• British-Iranian composer Soosan Lolavar writes for The Carice Singers (page 11)

• Laurence Osborn creates a 21st-century tombeau for the 12 Ensemble with GBSR Duo (page 23)

• Sir James MacMillan’s We Are Collective, a piano quintet for the Maxwell Quartet and Alasdair Beatson (page 10)

• Composer Academy alumna Aileen Sweeney writes a new work to be heard in a Regency-era drawing room (page 11)

• James B Wilson responds to the life and work of Ralph Vaughan Williams in a piece for the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (page 9)