Songs by Gounod, Debussy, Duparc, Ravel and Brahms, and folksongs from Northumbria and South Africa

The legendary contralto Kathleen Ferrier was one of the finest voices Britain has ever produced, achieving world renown and a very special relationship with the Edinburgh International Festival through her memorable performances in its early years. This thrilling showcase of vocal talent celebrates her legacy.

The Kathleen Ferrier Award was set up to honour outstanding young singers at the start of their careers, and its winners represent the most exciting hopes for the opera houses and Lieder platforms of the future. London-born mezzo soprano Kitty Whately, praised for her sweet-toned voice and natural charisma, was the 2011 recipient, and South African baritone Njabulo Madlala won in 2010 with his rich, creamy tones and dramatic characterisation.

They are joined by two masters of the Lieder recital, Sir Thomas Allen and pianist Roger Vignoles, for a wide-ranging programme contrasting the rich Romanticism of Gounod and Brahms with the subtle, evocative impressionism of Debussy, Ravel and Duparc, and also taking in folksongs from Allen’s Northumbrian and Madlala’s South African homelands.