Opening Concert: Kantos Chamber Choir

Kantos Chamber Choir

conducted by Ellie Slorach

The Summer Festival opens with the outstanding Kantos Chamber Choir, the trailblazing vocal ensemble based in the north of England, performing at the cutting edge of the creative scene. They produce vocal performances, shaped by the music and stories they believe in, viewing voices as a powerful gateway to our past, present and future, unveiling countless emotions, identities, and experiences. The doors to their performances are always open to everyone, whether you’re a veteran concertgoer or seeking something new.

Performing music by everyone from 11th Century visionary saints to genre-bending, experimental rock stars, Kantos prides itself on championing contemporary and well-known choral music, delivering raw, stunning performances as the most ground-breaking, dynamic and creative vocal artists in the North.

Commissioning and premiering new music is integral to Kantos; recent UK and international artist collaborations include Shruthi Rajasekar, Sadie Harrison, Rebecca Dale, Jack Sheen, Tim Benjamin, Chris Hutchings, Eleanor Cully Boehringer, Rory Wainwright-Johnston, Camden Reeves & Anna Disley-Simpson.

Alongside self-promoted performances and tours across the UK, recent highlights include touring with Gary Numan & Skaparis Orchestra in the Royal Albert Hall, Bridgewater Hall and O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire; recording for BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship, alongside Manchester-based poet Rachel Mann; recording with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra for a Radio 3 drama production of Anthony Burgess’ ‘Oedipus’; recording with Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra; premiering Rebecca Dale’s Mater Requiem alongside a recording with record label Decca; an album release of contemporary Christmas carols for record label Prima Facie.

2026 marks their 10th anniversary, and we look forward to celebrating a decade of music-making, storytelling, and boundary-pushing choral performance with them as part of the Glossop Music Festival 2026 Summer Festival.

Reserved Seating for Friends of GMF

Those who have joined the GMF Friends will be able to take advantage of reserved seats towards the front of the church, as a token of our appreciation for their support of Glossop Music Festival. Friends should email friends@glossopmusicfestival.org.uk with their seating requirements.

If you would like to join our Friends, please visit: www.glossopmusicfestival.org.uk/become-a-friend or email for further information.