Jamie Walton, Cellist

The concept is to provide the highest level of chamber music within historical buildings which themselves celebrate the rich history of the moors, one of our country's most stunning and panoramic landscapes. Simplicity and accessibility both in terms of repertoire and of price have been contributory factors in the festival being such an immediate phenomenon. This also erases any hint of elitism and I firmly believe such music should be for everyone and the festival environment strives to demonstrate this; the potential power of music to bind locals and visitors together regardless of religion or politics is also a great motivation and many have commented on the friendly yet passionate atmosphere.

The enormous success of the third festival (‘Paths to Russia’) in August 2011 to capacity audiences, the Royal Philharmonic Society Award 2011 shortlist and the enthusiasm from both the audiences and musicians alike have helped establish this festival firmly on the musical map. This is particularly rewarding during the challenging cultural and financial climate and thus testament to the demand there clearly is for quality music and a celebration not just of this but also of exquisite buildings and breathtaking landscape, particularly during the month of August: a spectacular time of year for the North York Moors, carpeted in heather at the height of summer. From the extraordinary St Mary's Church, Lastingham with its Anglo-Saxon crypt to the mists of Whitby Abbey, the panorama across the largest moorland in Europe and the ethereal remnants of Rievaulx—this National Park is one of the outstanding areas of historical and natural beauty in our land and this festival aims to combine every element to make the concerts an all encompassing experience.