This piece highlights the classical vocal concerts scheduled for the event.
On July 19, 2025, Denise Stout will direct the Northumbria Chamber Choir, performing pieces by Byrd and Debussy, alongside Northumbrian folk tunes and other selections.
Mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston, accompanied by pianist Sholto Kynoch, will present “Notes of Old” on July 23, 2025, showcasing compositions by Schubert, J.S. Bach, Pauline Viardot, and additional artists.
On July 24, 2025, Helen Charlston teams up with lutenist Toby Carr for a performance called “Garden of Eden,” featuring music by Purcell, Strozzi, and Pelham Humfrey.
The 2025 Paxton Music Festival promises an intimate and immersive experience, set in the historic surroundings of Paxton House, where the acoustics and ambiance elevate each performance. Denise Stout and the Northumbria Chamber Choir’s eclectic program blends the intricate harmonies of Byrd and Debussy with the soulful melodies of Northumbrian folk songs, offering a journey through centuries of musical tradition.
Helen Charlston’s “Notes of Old,” performed with Sholto Kynoch, will captivate audiences with its thoughtful curation, highlighting Charlston’s versatility and Kynoch’s sensitive accompaniment in a dialogue between past and present. The following evening, Charlston’s collaboration with Toby Carr in “Garden of Eden” evokes baroque splendor, with the delicate interplay of voice and lute creating a reflective and enchanting close to the vocal performances.
These concerts, held in the Picture Gallery at Paxton House, offer limited seating, ensuring a personal connection between performers and audience. Tickets for all three events go on sale April 20, 2025, through the festival’s website, with early booking recommended due to high demand. The 2025 lineup, with Helen Charlston’s performances as a highlight, underscores Paxton’s commitment to celebrating classical vocal artistry, drawing both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers to this cherished cultural event.