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A Harmonious Journey: Edinburgh's 2025 Musical Extravaganza

Edinburgh is set to resonate with the sounds of a vibrant musical tapestry in 2025. From the ethereal choral harmonies of John Tavener's 'The Veil of The Temple' to the orchestral grandeur of Vaughan Williams' 'A Sea Symphony', this year's lineup at the Edinburgh International Festival promises to captivate. Highlights include the return of conductor Karina Canellakis with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and the powerful narrative of Mahler's Symphony No. 2. Join us as we delve into these remarkable performances, bringing to life the stories and artists behind the music.

May 23, 2025

1. EIF: Opening Concert: The Veil of The Temple

The Usher Hall transforms into a sanctuary for John Tavener’s magnum opus, The Veil of the Temple. This is only the second time it has ever been performed in the UK.

Aug 2, 2025

Royal Scottish National Orchestra

Edinburgh · Usher Hall, Edinburgh

2. LSO: Vaughan Williams’s A Sea Symphony

Join the London Symphony Orchestra and their new Chief Conductor, Sir Antonio Pappano, for this celebration of early 20th-century works.

Aug 14, 2025

London Symphony Orchestra

Edinburgh · Usher Hall

3. EIF: Bernstein & Stravinsky

The in-demand conductor Karina Canellakis returns after making her Edinburgh International Festival debut in the 2023 Closing Concert. She leads this monumental programme with the Edinburgh Festival Chorus and the BBC SSO, characterised by thrilling sounds and ideas of love, divine or human.

Aug 21, 2025

BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra

Edinburgh · The Usher Hall

4. Mahler's Symphony No.2 ‘Resurrection' in Edinburgh

A man stands alone at the grave of a friend. Shattered by grief, he shakes his fist at the heavens and begins a journey that will take him to the end of the world and beyond. The sheer ambition of Gustav Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony staggers the imagination—an emotional odyssey on a cosmic scale, embracing tragedy, hope, dark humour, and even Judgement Day itself.

Mar 1, 2026

BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra

Edinburgh · Usher Hall

Conclusion

As the Edinburgh International Festival unfolds, it becomes clear that music has the power to transcend time and place. This year's festival not only showcases the brilliance of its featured composers and performers but also invites audiences to explore the deeper themes within each work. Through a series of unforgettable performances, it reaffirms music's ability to move, inspire, and connect us all. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of classical music, the festival offers a rich and diverse program that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

2025 Artelize••