Seen and Hearn International, Paul Conway

Now in its 44th year, the Radnorshire-based Presteigne Festival is always a shining highlight of the UK classical music calendar. The opening day of the 2026 festival provided a perfect illustration of this annual event’s exceptional qualities of enterprising programming and top-flight musicianship in attractive surroundings.

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“St Andrew’s, Presteigne also provided the location for the opening day’s evening concert that featured two recent pieces for mixed chamber ensemble followed by a ground-breaking music theatre work by Stravinsky. All three items on the programme were conducted with precision and warmth by the festival’s artistic director, George Vass.”

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… a performance of Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale (1918)… benefitted from the use of Michael Flanders and Kitty Black’s witty English translation of the text, subtle but atmospheric lighting effects and deft directorial touches such as the use of the venue’s pulpit to deliver a homily to the audience…

“The crowning glory was the superb playing of the Presteigne Festival Ensemble, virtuosic and stylish under the vigilant and supportive direction of George Vass…”