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PRESS RELEASE
TV’s Rob Rinder Named President of Oxford Chamber Music Festival’s 25th Anniversary Season
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OXFORD, UK — The Oxford Chamber Music Festival has appointed celebrated television broadcaster, barrister, and classical music devotee Rob Rinder as its Festival President ahead of its 25th anniversary. The milestone season runs September 22nd-27th, 2025, with the theme “Eden in Oxford.”
Rinder, known to millions as the star of ITV’s “Judge Rinder,” has an encyclopaedic knowledge of classical music and is a longstanding champion of groups such as the Orion Orchestra and the Royal Corps of Army Music. His appointment signals the festival’s commitment to bringing chamber music to broader audiences while maintaining its reputation for artistic excellence.
“I love chamber music because it draws us close; instruments speaking to one another in a way that feels both intimate and immense, inviting us into the conversation,” said Rinder. “For me, that’s where music’s deepest truth lies, in the beauty and humanity that emerge when we truly listen. That’s why I feel so deeply honoured to be part of the Oxford Chamber Music Festival, which celebrates this art at its most profound.”
As Festival President, Rinder will serve as an ambassador for the festival’s mission, helping to champion chamber music’s unique power to create intimate connections between performers and audiences.
A Quarter-Century of Musical Excellence
Founded 25 years ago by violinist and Artistic Director Priya Mitchell, the Oxford Chamber Music Festival has grown from an ambitious gathering of emerging classical musicians into what BBC Music Magazine calls the “No.1 unmissable event.” The festival has built its reputation on dynamic programming that places beloved classics alongside bold new works, creating what The Daily Telegraph praises as an “exhilarating atmosphere.”
“Priya’s genius has always been the key to the festival’s success,” says Mark Rowse, former Chair of Trustees. “Her ability to persuade exceptional artists to perform and her warm and generous heart have provided a fresh and unpredictable energy that is still present 25 years later.”
“Eden in Oxford” Anniversary Program
This year’s “Eden in Oxford” theme will take audiences on a musical journey exploring nature, creation, and the origins of beauty and harmony. The anniversary program features several world premieres and works by composer-in-residence Thomas Adès, whose innovative compositions will create striking dialogues with classical masterworks throughout the week.
Opening night on Monday, September 22, features the internationally renowned Belcea Quartet performing at Oxford’s historic Sheldonian Theatre. The festival continues across the city’s most atmospheric venues, from ancient college halls to intimate recital spaces.
World-Class Artists Return Home
This anniversary season brings together an exceptional international lineup, including artists such as:
- Priya Mitchell (violin) – Festival founder and artistic director
- Julius Drake (piano) – One of Britain’s most sought-after collaborative pianists
- Hugo Ticciati & O/Modernt Chamber Orchestra – The innovative acclaimed ensemble
- Alena Baeva (violin) – Kyrgyzstan-born Luxembourgian, multi-award winning violinist
- Irina Zahharenkova (piano) – Estonian keyboard virtuoso
- Luciana Mancini (mezzo-soprano) – Star of opera houses worldwide
- Dirk Mommertz (piano) – German virtuoso and chamber music specialist
- Reto Bieri (clarinet) – iconic soloist, improviser, recording artist and educator
A full list of artists can be found at https://www.ocmf.net/2025-festival/artists/.
The main festival runs September 22-27, 2025, following a special fringe event on September 21.
Tickets are now available at https://www.ocmf.net/tickets/
About the Oxford Chamber Music Festival
Beyond its annual autumn celebration, the Oxford Chamber Music Foundation organizes year-round musical events, masterclasses, and educational initiatives designed to nurture emerging musicians while bringing world-class chamber music to diverse audiences across Oxford and beyond.
Media Contact:
Marcus Martin, Partnerships Manager
Email: marcus@optimistical.io
Phone: 07753193140
Festival website: OCMF.NET
Downloadable assets:
For interview requests with Rob Rinder or Priya Mitchell, high-resolution images, or detailed program information, please contact the above.