From Beverley to Bechstein Hall

New Paths Collective launches with a series of rush-hour concerts in London

To celebrate 10 years of New Paths Music, we are taking the show on the road!  The birthday (mini-)tour starts in September with a series of rush-hour performances in London’s Bechstein Hall.

During our first decade, thousands of festivalgoers have made the journey to Beverley for the festivals.  In this landmark year, we are sharing the magic of New Paths Music with people in some other parts of the country – beginning in the capital.

The collective comprises exceptional artists who have appeared at festival over the years alongside our Artistic Director, pianist Libby Burgess.  On 8th September, Libby is joined by cellist Leo Popplewell and soprano Harriet Burns. Their programme includes Britten’s cycle On This Island with James MacMillan’s haunting Cello Sonata No 1.

The concert on 10th September also combines a Britten song cycle with a major instrumental sonata: on this occasion, Libby is joined by mezzo-soprano Marta Fontanals-Simmons in A Charm of Lullabies, and by viola player Jane Atkins in the ‘Arpeggione Sonata’ by Schubert.

It is fitting that Benjamin Britten is a special focus: 2026 marks 50 years since the death of the composer, and his music has featured prominently at our festivals.

For tickets and more information, please follow the links below.

  • Bechstein Hall

    22 Wigmore Street
    London
    W1U 2RH

  • 6pm - 7.10pm
  • Tickets £20 (students: free)

On This Island

Tuesday 8th September 2026

Programme:
Benjamin Britten: On This Island
Sir James MacMillan: Cello Sonata No.1
plus music by André Previn, Cheryl Frances-Hoad, Rebecca Clarke, Ernest Moeran, Dilys Elwyn-Edwards and Muriel Herbert.

Artists:
Harriet Burns (soprano)
Leo Popplewell (cello)
Libby Burgess (piano)

  • Bechstein Hall

    22 Wigmore Street
    London
    W1U 2RH

  • 6pm - 7.10pm
  • Tickets £20 (students: free)

A Charm of Lullabies

Thursday 10th September 2026

Programme:
Franz Schubert: Arpeggione Sonata in A minor, D. 821
Benjamin Britten: A Charm of Lullabies
plus music by Grace Williams and Johannes Brahms.

Artists:
Marta Fontanals-Simmons (mezzo-soprano)
Jane Atkins (viola)
Libby Burgess (piano)