Rachmaninov 2nd Piano Concerto and Lark Ascending Live Music & Concerts

Enjoy an exceptional candlelit classical concert in the beautiful setting of Manchester Cathedral.

Join the Piccadilly Sinfonietta, one of the UK’s most exciting chamber ensembles, for a festive celebration of iconic works by Vaughan Williams, Mozart, and Rachmaninov—all performed by leading soloists in an atmosphere of seasonal splendour. The evening opens with Vaughan Williams’ beloved The Lark Ascending, a poignant and ethereal tribute to the English countryside, performed by violinist Henry Chandler. This is followed by Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, one of the composer’s final and most sublime works, showcasing the lyrical brilliance of clarinettist Poppy Beddoe. After a short interval, the concert concludes with Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2, a work of sweeping emotion and lush Romanticism, performed by acclaimed pianist Warren Mailley-Smith, whose expressive artistry continues to captivate audiences across the UK.

“Stunning” – Classic FM

Featuring:
The Piccadilly Sinfonietta
Warren Mailley-Smith (piano)
Henry Chandler (violin)
Poppy Beddoe (clarinet)

Programme:
Vaughan Williams – The Lark Ascending
Mozart – Clarinet Concerto in A major
Interval
Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No. 2

With a reputation for electrifying performances and over 200 concerts annually, The Piccadilly Sinfonietta brings together some of the UK’s finest classical musicians under the artistic direction of Warren Mailley-Smith. Their focus on the great concerto repertoire of the 18th and 19th centuries ensures a night of musical brilliance and festive refinement.

Celebrate the season with an evening of soaring melodies, candlelit ambience, and musical mastery in one of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks. With many restaurants and bars just moments away, it’s the perfect way to start or end a special Christmas evening out.

Hotels near Manchester Cathedral

Staying overnight in Manchester?

Wondering where to stay that's close to Manchester Cathedral? We've teamed up with Booking.com to provide the best room rates for hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs near the March For Veterans event in Manchester.

The Mitre Hotel

ROOMS FROM£35

66mAWAY

0 ★

Built at the foot of Manchester Cathedral in 1815, the Mitre is one of the oldest hotels in Manchester city centre. It has a restaurant and a stylish bar with Sky Sports and pool room, and provides free Wi-Fi in public areas..

Postcode: M3 1SW
Distance from Manchester Cathedral:
0 miles

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Premier Inn Manchester City

ROOMS FROM£68

167mAWAY

3 ★

Just 300 metres from the Arena, this Premier Inn hotel offers modern rooms with king-size beds. Arndale Shopping Centre is only a 5-minute walk away..

Postcode: M3 5AS
Distance from Manchester Cathedral:
0.1 miles

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Renaissance Manchester City Centre

ROOMS FROM£81

227mAWAY

4 ★

Located on Manchesters central Deansgate Road and ideal for shopping, this modern hotel has spacious, air-conditioned rooms with city views. It is just 650 metres from the Manchester Arena. Unlimited free WiFi is available in public areas.

Postcode: M3 2EQ
Distance from Manchester Cathedral:
0.1 miles

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The Works Aparthotel

ROOMS FROM£63

251mAWAY

4 ★

Situated just 15 minutes walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station, The Works Aparthotel is a 5-minute stroll from the MEN Arena..

Postcode: M4 2BJ
Distance from Manchester Cathedral:
0.2 miles

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City Stop Manchester

ROOMS FROM£68

292mAWAY

4 ★

Opposite the Printworks, these stylish apartments in Manchester centre have modern kitchens and free internet. The 4-star City Stop Apartment Hotel is 600 metres from the Arndale Shopping Centre..

Postcode: M4 2AD
Distance from Manchester Cathedral:
0.2 miles

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Lower Turks Head

ROOMS FROM£25

396mAWAY

0 ★

Ideally located in the heart of Manchester, and less than 10 minutes walk from Manchester Victoria Station, Lower Turks Head offers en suite accommodation, a restaurant and a bar. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout..

Postcode: M4 1EZ
Distance from Manchester Cathedral:
0.2 miles

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