Date: Wednesday 21st June 2023 
Times: 11:00am 21st June to 5:30am 22nd June 2023 
Venue: Leeds Corn Exchange 
Tickets: Pay What You Can 

We're kicking off Summer Solstice with a bang!  SAA-uk and Leeds 2023 invite you to join us as we celebrate the longest day of summer, World Music Day and International Yoga Day in none other than the iconic Leeds Corn Exchange.    

This timeless emblem of harvest, prosperity, and ardour will erupt with life as sounds and rhythms from across the world unite amidst its historic walls.   

Our stellar line-up includes Shah-e-Mardaan qawwali ensemble and whirling Dervish, award-winning musician Qais Essar, who is travelling all the way from the USA to invite you to explore the enchanting melodies he plays on the 2.500-year-old instrument the Afghan rabab. Formidable Scotland-based Sarangi player Sardar Satinderpal Singh will also arrive to colour the celebrations with his sweet tunes, as will rising star Kaviraj Singh and award-winning singer Anamika Chowdhury.   

Drop by for a mid-morning treat of live music and a lovely Yorkshire cuppa, or rewind with a spot of retail therapy. With a beautiful array of independent shops to browse through, you certainly be spoilt for choice! 

And for all slumped over your desks around the city, give yourself licence to take a break and enjoy a lunchtime recital. So, clock off early and be ready to surrender to the cool, deep waves of Indo-Jazz that melt all worries away. When evening descends, follow the call of hypnotic raags that lead you along the cool cobble streets that for many moons have led the curious, like you, on eventide adventures. When the enchanting rhythms seem close enough to touch, you are one step away from the evening concert. Here you will find a hidden door on the lower ground of the Corn Exchange. Come on through, as on the other side, magic awaits. 

Do join us for an unforgettable experience of music, celebration, and unity as we honour summer's return. 

Full programme to be announced soon. 

Supported by LEEDS 2023, Arts Council England and Leeds City Council