Pictured above: VOCES8. Photo by Andy Staples

The Surrey Hills International Music Festival (SHIMF) has unveiled the programme for its 16th edition, set to take place from 6 to 17 May. This highly anticipated annual event continues to bring world-class classical musicians to scenic venues across the Surrey Hills.

Highlights of the 2025 season include a performance by Grammy-nominated vocal ensemble VOCES8, celebrating their 20th anniversary with a concert at Guildford’s Holy Trinity Church as part of their global tour. The internationally renowned Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will collaborate with the Sitkovetsky Trio at the Menuhin Hall in Cobham and at the Festival Finale in Dorking’s St Martin’s Church. Virtuoso pianist Alim Beisembayev, winner of the prestigious 2021 Leeds International Piano Competition, will make his Festival debut at the Menuhin Hall.

The Festival will once again support emerging talent through its Lunchtime Young Artist Concerts. These will feature performances by the award-winning Londinium Consort at West Horsley Place and students from the Yehudi Menuhin School at St Michael’s Church, Betchworth. Attendees can also enjoy guided walks in the Surrey Hills National Landscape, interspersed with live musical performances, and expert talks on the programme.

The Londinium Consort will play West Horsley Place

A new highlight for 2025 is the appointment of the Duke of Northumberland as a Festival Patron. SHIMF Chairman Julia Pearson expressed delight at this development, noting the Duke’s advocacy for the Surrey Hills National Landscape and creativity in the countryside. Pearson also extended gratitude to sponsors and supporters whose generosity enables the Festival’s diverse initiatives, including music education through the String Scheme and opportunities for young musicians.

SHIMF was founded in 2010 by pianists Wu Qian and Tessa Marchington and has grown from a weekend of chamber music to a fortnight of concerts, talks, and walks in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Festival is a registered charity dedicated to supporting young talent and fostering music education.

Tickets for SHIMF 2025 are now available at shimf.co.uk.

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Music, art and culture for Surrey, Berkshire and London are in every edition of Premier Magazine. Browse the latest edition HERE.

Also, our additional monthly ‘what’s on’ bulletin for January can be read HERE.