Manchester Classical returns in June 2025, uniting the city’s top ensembles, including the Hallé, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, English National Opera, Manchester Collective, Riot Ensemble, and RNCM, for a celebration of classical music past and present. Following its acclaimed 2023 debut, the festival expands its programme with major symphonic works, opera, contemporary music, and a world premiere by Iain Farrington.

The weekend opens with a Steve Reich special, featuring Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood performing Pulse with the Hallé. Highlights include Mahler’s Second Symphony (RNCM), Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (BBC Philharmonic), and an opera gala with ENO’s Chorus and the Hallé. Manchester Collective presents The Body Electric, featuring music by Bach, Missy Mazzoli, and Julia Wolfe, while Riot Ensemble presents a programme of contemporary works.

The festival culminates in a finale featuring musicians from all participating ensembles performing Respighi’s The Pines of Rome, John Adams’ Short Ride in a Fast Machine, and a new commission by Iain Farrington.

Alongside ticketed events, the festival offers free concerts, singing workshops, and family-friendly performances, including a BBC Philharmonic concert with a screening of Quentin Blake’s Box of Treasures.

For the full schedule and tickets, visit mcrclassical.org