Come to the Oxford Piano Festival to socialise with and to watch performances by both worldclass pianists and the next generation of stars, as well as meeting like-minded people from around the world who are passionate about classical music.
The Oxford Piano Festival explores the art of piano playing in all its guises, from masterclasses and solo recitals to concerto performances alongside the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra. The concept of the pianist as a musician lies at the heart of the Festival. The various roles of the pianist – as virtuoso, chamber musician, accompanist, conductor, academic and teacher – are all examined. We welcome many distinguished names to the festival. This year’s festival features performances from Víkingur Ólafsson, Sir Stephen Hough, Isata Kanneh-Mason and Nikolai Lugansky. Our masterclass programme offers the opportunity for emerging artists to learn from the wisdom of greats of the piano world.
Travel to Oxford
Oxford is easily accessible, situated just a one-hour train ride from central London. There are frequent train and coach services running from London and a direct coach service from Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The festival's staff will be happy to advise you about your journey to and from the Festival.
Transport to Concerts
All concerts are within walking distance (under 1 mile) of St Hilda’s College. The office can organise taxis at an additional cost for those who would prefer not to walk. We advise using public transport where possible as there is limited parking available at St Hilda’s College and in the city centre.
Local accommodation
Staying on the St Hilda’s campus provides a peaceful, tranquil backdrop to the Festival, alongside being the easiest access to all festival events. Full board accommodation at St Hilda’s College is available on a first come first served basis, with priority given to Observer Pass holders.
The festival takes place on the campus of St Hilda’s College, University of Oxford. Evening recitals are held across the city in iconic, historical venues. Situated opposite the picturesque Christ Church Meadows, there is plenty to explore on the tranquil grounds of St Hilda’s College. Festival venues range from the state of the art Jaqueline du Pre Music Building at St Hilda’s, to the Holywell Music Room, the first purpose built concert hall in Europe.
Meals are included with accommodation packages at St Hilda's College, starting with dinner on 26 July and ending with lunch on 3 August. Many restaurants, cafes, and bars are also just a 10-minute walk away.
There is no set dress code for any of the events. However, some audience members choose to dress smart casual for our evening recitals.
Famous for its ‘Dreaming Spires’, Oxford boasts attractions such as the historic University of Oxford colleges, the majestic Bodleian Library, and Radcliffe Camera. Visitors can marvel at the Ashmolean Museum’s collections, explore Christ Church Cathedral, and relax at the Botanic Garden. Enjoy the quintessential Oxford experience of punting on the River Cherwell, which runs through the grounds of St Hilda's College itself.
