We’ve attended a number of Festivals across Europe, but nothing quite compares to the Harrogate International Youth and Music Festival. The inspiring concert locations, packed and enthusiastic audiences and spirit of the Festival was just magical. The organisation by the team before and during the concert was first-rate, allowing me the chance to really enjoy the performances and our group-time in Harrogate.
Head of Music, Secondary School in Cork, Ireland
I have attended the HIYF three times: once as a student, and twice as a Director. ECE and the organizers behind the Harrogate International Youth and Music Festival do an exceptional job. To be sure, there are countless festivals all over the world that bands and orchestras can choose from, but ECE does seem special. Emails are answered very quickly, and every detail of the trip is handled with more care and thought than I could even give myself. Their experience and expertise is evident in their organization of every detail of the tour, their connection with the local communities, and their anticipation of the needs of the ensembles. They do a nice job with mixers and social activities to get the students bonding. The dorms that house the students are top-notch, and provide a great place for students to relax, rehearse, and recharge after busy days of performing and touring. On many occasions, after concerts, the members of the audience would stay and chat with my students for quite a while, curious about them and their passion for music. The HIYF has great organizations, great audiences, a great location, and a rich history that make it stand out.
Director of Performing Arts at School in Thailand
We spent a very eventful weekend in Harrogate. The beautiful venues were very impressive and our pupils were very enthusiastic. It was great that we were able to get to know so many groups from around the world. Many thanks to the organizing team for the good cooperation and the great support.
Jochen Wolkner, Wartburgkreis Music School, Germany, Band Manager
We got the chance to participate in many concerts in marvellous venues in the Yorkshire region. We met groups and orchestras from various countries all over the globe. In times of increasing political and religious intolerance in some parts of the world this festival contributes an essential part to international cultural exchange and understanding.
Thomas Haberkamp, Germany, Youth Jazz Orchestra of Northrhine-Westphalia
Year after year my kids have stayed in touch with people they’ve met at the Festival. For some of them, it is the single most important memory they have from high school.
Secondary School, Vancouver, Department Head
We had the privilege of bringing the Africa New Life Children’s Choir from Rwanda to HIYF and what an amazing experience we had. Not only did the choir get to sing in some amazing and historical venues, but being able to mix and get to know other performers from around the world was fantastic.
Cat Ross, Rwanda Child Spokesperson
The Festival is absolutely fantastic. I am not only involved now as a director, but I have been involved as a student when I was here at school. It is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with such talented musicians and like minded participants from across the globe in a relaxed but musical environment.
Craig Raitcliffe, St John Fisher Catholic High School, Head of Music
Head of Music, Secondary School in Cork, Ireland
I have attended the HIYF three times: once as a student, and twice as a Director. ECE and the organizers behind the Harrogate International Youth and Music Festival do an exceptional job. To be sure, there are countless festivals all over the world that bands and orchestras can choose from, but ECE does seem special. Emails are answered very quickly, and every detail of the trip is handled with more care and thought than I could even give myself. Their experience and expertise is evident in their organization of every detail of the tour, their connection with the local communities, and their anticipation of the needs of the ensembles. They do a nice job with mixers and social activities to get the students bonding. The dorms that house the students are top-notch, and provide a great place for students to relax, rehearse, and recharge after busy days of performing and touring. On many occasions, after concerts, the members of the audience would stay and chat with my students for quite a while, curious about them and their passion for music. The HIYF has great organizations, great audiences, a great location, and a rich history that make it stand out.
Director of Performing Arts at School in Thailand
We spent a very eventful weekend in Harrogate. The beautiful venues were very impressive and our pupils were very enthusiastic. It was great that we were able to get to know so many groups from around the world. Many thanks to the organizing team for the good cooperation and the great support.
Jochen Wolkner, Wartburgkreis Music School, Germany, Band Manager
We got the chance to participate in many concerts in marvellous venues in the Yorkshire region. We met groups and orchestras from various countries all over the globe. In times of increasing political and religious intolerance in some parts of the world this festival contributes an essential part to international cultural exchange and understanding.
Thomas Haberkamp, Germany, Youth Jazz Orchestra of Northrhine-Westphalia
Year after year my kids have stayed in touch with people they’ve met at the Festival. For some of them, it is the single most important memory they have from high school.
Secondary School, Vancouver, Department Head
We had the privilege of bringing the Africa New Life Children’s Choir from Rwanda to HIYF and what an amazing experience we had. Not only did the choir get to sing in some amazing and historical venues, but being able to mix and get to know other performers from around the world was fantastic.
Cat Ross, Rwanda Child Spokesperson
The Festival is absolutely fantastic. I am not only involved now as a director, but I have been involved as a student when I was here at school. It is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with such talented musicians and like minded participants from across the globe in a relaxed but musical environment.
Craig Raitcliffe, St John Fisher Catholic High School, Head of Music
