Under the baton of principal conductor Edward Gardner, the London Philharmonic Orchestra returns to the Festival for the first time in a decade with a stunning programme.

Edinburgh International Festival

Usher Hall

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.

EIF: Opening Concert: The Veil of The Temple

Usher Hall, Edinburgh

Join us at the Edinburgh International Festival for a groundbreaking performance of Julia Wolfe's "Fire in my mouth," presented by the Philharmonia with Principal Guest Conductor Marin Alsop. This UK premiere takes place at Usher Hall, Edinburgh, on Wednesday, 21 August 2024, at 8pm.

"Fire in my mouth" is a powerful commemoration of the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York, the deadliest industrial disaster in the city's history, which claimed the lives of 146 garment workers, predominantly women of immigrant backgrounds. The performance uniquely represents each victim through a choir member, blending Yiddish and Italian folk songs with the sounds of the factory and the fire to create a hauntingly vivid soundscape.

This multimedia performance is enhanced by the award-winning scenic, lighting, and video designs of Tony Award-winner Jeff Sugg, promising an unforgettable experience.

Featuring the talents of Marin Alsop as conductor, alongside the Sopranos and Altos of the National Youth Choir of Scotland and the NYCOS National Girls Choir, this event is a must-see at the festival.

Tickets start from £20, with concessions available for D/deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent people, under 18s, arts workers, and under 30s. A limited number of £10 Affordable Tickets are also available to ensure accessibility for all.

Don't miss this poignant tribute to a pivotal moment in history, brought to life through the power of music and multimedia storytelling. Book your tickets now and be part of this extraordinary event at the Edinburgh International Festival.

Edinburgh International Festival: Fire in my mouth

The Usher Hall

Fire in my mouth commemorates the most fatal industrial disaster in New York’s history. Against the backdrop of the worker’s protest movement, the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire stole the lives of 146 garment workers, who were mostly women of immigrant backgrounds. Here, every victim is represented by a choir member. Yiddish and Italian folk songs, along with the clatter of the factory and the terror of the inferno, create a haunting soundscape.

National Youth Choir of Scotland

Aug 5, 2025

Edinburgh International Festival

Aug 2, 2025

EIF: Opening Concert: The Veil of The Temple

National Youth Choir of Scotland