The acclaimed Harrogate International Sunday Series launches its brand-new season this month with a captivating performance by a violinist whose journey from the favelas of Rio de Janeiro to the world stage has captured global attention.
From Rio to Harrogate: A Rising Star's Journey
Nathan Amaral, a Brazilian violinist and rising international star, will take to the stage at the historic Old Swan Hotel at 11am on Sunday, January 18. He will be joined for the performance by the celebrated Lithuanian-born pianist, Kasparas Mikužis.
Amaral's musical story is one of remarkable talent meeting opportunity. He first picked up a violin at the age of 12 after being offered lessons through a social project in the Rio de Janeiro favela where he was raised. From those beginnings, he has forged an award-winning career, recognised for his versatile and charismatic playing.
His accolades include being the First Prize winner of the prestigious 27th Sphinx Competition and being named a 2024 Classic FM Rising Star. He now performs worldwide as both a soloist and chamber musician. Deeply committed to making music accessible, Amaral continues to support and teach young musicians from challenging backgrounds in Brazil through his own music festival.
Celebrating 60 Years of Festival Excellence
This year's concert holds special significance as it helps launch the 60th anniversary celebrations for Harrogate International Festivals. As part of the commemorations, the Sunday Series will host two post-concert talks, starting with Amaral, allowing audiences a unique chance to hear directly from the musicians and gain deeper insight into their work.
Sharon Canavar, Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, said: "The Harrogate International Sunday Series has been providing a platform to some of the most incredible musicians for more than three decades, which is why we are delighted to welcome Nathan Amaral to Harrogate."
"He is a truly outstanding violinist and, together with Kasparas Mikužis on piano, I can’t think of a better way to start this year’s Sunday Series and our 60th anniversary celebrations. It’s going to be a truly special performance!" she added.
An Intimate Morning of Exceptional Music
Joining Amaral is pianist Kasparas Mikužis, himself a winner of the 2025 Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) international auditions and a Classic FM 'Rising Star' from the same year. Together, their programme will feature works by Mozart, Debussy, Franck and Villa-Lobos.
All Sunday Series concerts are held at the Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate, offering an intimate setting where audiences can enjoy a morning coffee alongside world-class music. Tickets for this unmissable season opener are available now.
Tickets can be purchased via the Harrogate International Festivals website at harrogateinternationalfestivals.com or by calling the Box Office on 01423 562 303.
