Organisers of the Harrogate International Youth Festival – Music and Performing Arts along with local Harrogate dignitaries, celebrated the launch of the 41st festival last night at the Mayor’s Parlour, Harrogate.
With a nod to St Patrick’s Day the evening included a rousing performance from St. Aeldreds dance group who delighted the guests with a traditional Irish jig.
A host of Harrogate VIP’s, including local councillors, Knaresborough Lions, Harrogate Rotarians and friends of the Festival attended the launch to celebrate the start of the countdown to the 2014 programme, which is set to be a treat for local audiences.
The evening was marked with a sparkling drinks and canapés reception where people socialised in a relaxed atmosphere thanks to the cool, classy repertoire of a Clarinet Quartet provided by St Aiden’s Church of England High School.
Guests heard from the Festival Director Louisa Webb, the Mayor of Harrogate and John Wood, Chair of the Liaison Committee. The focus was on the event’s rich history and how it will be taken forward as a landmark event on the region’s cultural calendar.
Louisa Webb, Festival Director commented: This year is promising to be a really fun, and varied festival and will offer a wonderful mix of musical styles and performances. We’re really looking forward to welcoming the Rwandan youth choir as well as other international acts visiting from Russia, Canada and Germany, not forgetting the participation of local bands and groups whose support of the event is invaluable.
(left to right)St Aiden’s Clarinet Quartet, John Wood -Head of HIYF Committee, Mike Newby – Mayor of Harrrogate, Louisa Webb Festival Director and two dancers from St. Aeldreds dance group
Why can’t people spell St Aidan’s correctly?