Internationally acclaimed cellist, singer and composer Abel Selaocoe will open the 60th anniversary HACS Harrogate Music Festival with a special performance alongside the Bantu Ensemble this weekend.
The South African musician, who had his breakthrough at his BBC Proms debut in 2021, will take to the stage at Ashville College on Saturday, 6th June, launching this year’s landmark festival celebrations in spectacular fashion.
The performer received rave reviews following his Glastonbury Festival debut in 2025.
Joining him in Harrogate will be the Bantu Ensemble, a collective formed in 2022 that creates dynamic and ever-evolving performances inspired by Selaocoe’s compositions and the music that influences its members.
With no fixed repertoire, each concert offers a unique experience, breaking down barriers between African musical traditions and Western classical music.
Speaking ahead of the performance, Selaocoe said:
“My music is about connection – between cultures, traditions, voices and rhythms from across the world. I love bringing together storytelling, improvisation and the energy of live performance to create something that feels joyful, human and shared in the moment.
“I’m incredibly excited to come to Harrogate and open this year’s Music Festival. There’s something very special about being the first artist or Ensemble to welcome audiences into a festival experience – it sets the tone for everything that follows.
“I can’t wait to share this music, celebrate together, and begin the festival with energy, warmth and a spirit of discovery.”
Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, said the concert is a fitting way to begin the organisation’s milestone year.
She said:
“We are delighted to welcome Abel and the Bantu Ensemble to Harrogate. They have changed people’s perceptions about what constitutes classical music, thrilling audiences around the world.
“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 60th anniversary and get our exciting summer season off to a flying start.”
The concert takes place at Ashville College, Harrogate, on Saturday 6th June at 7.30pm.
Tickets are priced between £28 and £30 and are available through the Harrogate International Festivals box office.
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