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Pictured left: Soprano Elizabeth Watts, artistic director George Vass, composer Hugh Wood and violinist Madeleine Mitchell at the festival launch at the Freemason’s Arms |
Birthday boys at Hampstead fest
ARTISTS and musicians mingled with politicians and business people at a launch to celebrate the ninth Hampstead and Highgate Festival in Hampstead yesterday (Wednesday).
Camden Mayor Jill Fraser was a special guest at the launch at the Freemason’s Arms pub in Downshire Hill, which was also attended by Town Hall leisure chief, Councillor Flick Rea and many of the artists taking part in this year’s event.
Three birthdays will be marked by the festival this year – artistic director George Vass’s 50th, composer Paul Patterson’s 60th birthday and fellow composer Hugh Wood’s 75th birthday.
A new piece especially commissioned from Mr Wood, Divertimento for string orchestra, will receive its world premiere at the Charity Gala concert that will kick off the festival on May 9.
Artistic director George Vass said: “It’s great that so many people have taken time out of their busy lives to come here and support the festival. I’m especially pleased that we are celebrating two of our most important musical residents.”
For more information on the festival, go to www.hamandhighfest.co.uk or contact the box office on 0870 033 2733.
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