A unique event is set to redefine the connection between classical music and brewing traditions. On April 7, the Erda Ensemble will pay tribute to women who have historically shaped both fields at Springwell Taproom in Leeds. This performance not only highlights female composers but also sheds light on the historical role of women as pioneering brewers before the medieval era. The ensemble's harpist Olivia Jageurs emphasizes that women were originally the backbone of beer production until monks commercialized it.

The celebration stems from an initiative by Joseph Middleton, artistic director of Leeds Song, formerly known as Leeds Lieder Festival. By rebranding and expanding its scope, Leeds Song aims to attract diverse audiences through unconventional venues and themes. The festival now embraces global cultures and addresses contemporary social issues while maintaining its classical roots. Moreover, it underscores the therapeutic benefits of singing within a welcoming community atmosphere.

Tribute Through Melody: A Night Honoring Female Creativity

At Springwell Taproom, the Erda Ensemble crafts an evening celebrating the intertwined histories of women in music and brewing. Combining performances of compositions by early female composers with narratives about historical brewers, this event bridges past and present. The trio—comprising harpist Olivia Jageurs, flautist Chloe Vincent, and vocalist Marta Fontanals-Simmons—will showcase works like those of Hildegard von Bingen, a medieval nun renowned for her contributions to both brewing and musical composition.

This innovative concert format invites attendees to explore how women have long been central figures in creative industries. Before the Norman Conquest, home-based women brewed beer, establishing a tradition later overshadowed by monastic control. Now, through their artistry, the Erda Ensemble revives these forgotten stories. Their program includes discussions interspersed with musical pieces, creating an immersive experience where history comes alive through sound. As they perform amidst the aromatic ambiance of North Brewing Co., the audience will savor connections between ancient practices and modern craftsmanship.

Leeds Song: Expanding Horizons Through Community Engagement

Under its new name, Leeds Song embarks on a mission to democratize access to classical music. Artistic director Joseph Middleton explains that the festival's evolution reflects broader societal shifts toward inclusivity. While retaining prestigious performances featuring renowned artists such as Roderick Williams, Leeds Song ventures beyond traditional concert halls into unconventional spaces like pubs and community centers. These settings foster approachability, encouraging participation from demographics previously unexposed to classical repertoire.

In addition to diversifying locations, the festival incorporates multicultural elements, presenting songs across multiple languages and cultural contexts. Initiatives like "Our People," curated by Freddie Ballentine and Kunal Lahiry, amplify underrepresented voices, focusing particularly on queer artist histories. Beyond entertainment, Leeds Song promotes well-being through singing, offering workshops led by experts like Gareth Malone. Middleton advocates for the festival as a sanctuary against modern anxieties, emphasizing its power to connect individuals through shared human experiences expressed in poetry and melody.