Intimate classical concerts in London’s most magical venues
Grassroots. Musician-led charity. 500+ ★★★★★ reviews.
DEBUT’s Secret Concert series bring together exceptional musicians, curious audiences, and iconic spaces — Shoreditch Treehouse, Queen’s House, the Brunel Museum — for evenings of music, storytelling and real connection. Most shows sell out. Come and join us and see why.
“Energetic & spine-tinglingly good shows”
Latest reviews from Google
“My second time attending, and definitely not the last! An absolutely joyful experience, the variety and quality of performers is incredible, and to experience them in such an intimate setting makes the Secret Concerts so special.”
— Leanne ★★★★★
“This is honestly the most fun I've ever had at a classical event. Top tier talent with incredible hosts in an intimate setting makes this one of the best nights out in London. The seamless mixture of humour and sacredness of the music through the programming is a rollercoaster of an evening.”
— Adam ★★★★★
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”I would 100% recommend this - not just for classical music fans but for anyone willing to enjoy incredibly talented musicians up close.”
— Alazne ★★★★★
“Wow! Wish I wasn't giving this a review as I'd like to keep it secret! What an amazing evening filled with incredibly talented musicians.”
— Lucas ★★★★★
”Wonderful music in a remarkable setting. Must be one of the most intimate musical experiences in London.”
— Rob ★★★★★
”Amazing venue, very talented musicians. Just go!”
— Dee ★★★★★
What is a DEBUT Secret Concert?
Not your typical classical concert. Not your typical night out.
DEBUT’s Secret Concerts are intimate, story-led evenings of music in extraordinary spaces — designed to bring people closer to classical music, and to each other.
Since 2017, we've hosted 120+ sold-out shows, welcomed over 350 exceptional performers, and built a loyal community of curious, creative Londoners.
We are a grassroots, musician-led charity — created by musicians, for musicians and music lovers. Every concert supports the next generation of artists through mentoring, community and performance.
What’s on
Experience DEBUT's flagship secret concert at the magical Shoreditch Treehouse, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Shoreditch, with a Steinway Concert Grand piano under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights.
MUSICIANS
Ridge Ponini tenor
Rob Burton saxophone
Thomas Ang collaborative piano
Lizzie Holmes soprano, host & founder
Nathan Tinker Pianist, improvisor
Join DEBUT for an unforgettable evening concert at the magnificent Queen’s House in Greenwich – a hidden gem of classical architecture, nestled between the River Thames and the Royal Observatory.
Collin Shay countertenor and harpsichord
Lizzie Holmes soprano & host
Felix Kemp baritone
Pietro Genova Gaia violin
Stefania Lo Castro harp
Tickets sold via Royal Museums Greenwich:
Book tickets →
Or learn more in our event page:
Experience DEBUT’s atmospheric Secret Concert series south of the rive at the Brunel Museum, set inside the extraordinary Thames Tunnel Shaft — a hidden, cathedral-like chamber with breathtaking acoustics. Expect candlelit cabaret seating, soaring brick walls, and world-class musicians performing just a few feet away.
MUSICIANS
Guest singer tbc
William Jack cello pickin’
Lizzie Holmes soprano & host
Sam Peña resident pianist
Experience DEBUT's flagship secret concert at the magical Shoreditch Treehouse, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Shoreditch, with a Steinway Concert Grand piano under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights.
MUSICIANS
Guest singer tbc
Hannah Shilvock bass clarinet
Lizzie Holmes soprano, host & founder
Sam Peña resident pianist & improvisor
Experience DEBUT’s atmospheric Secret Concert series south of the rive at the Brunel Museum, set inside the extraordinary Thames Tunnel Shaft — a hidden, cathedral-like chamber with breathtaking acoustics. Expect candlelit cabaret seating, soaring brick walls, and world-class musicians performing just a few feet away.
MUSICIANS
Shafali Jalota soprano
Pedro Lopez flute
Panaretos Kyriatzidis collaborative pianist
Lizzie Holmes soprano & host
Sam Peña resident pianist & improvisor
Experience DEBUT's flagship secret concert at the magical Shoreditch Treehouse, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Shoreditch, with a Steinway Concert Grand piano under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights.
MUSICIANS
Shafali Jalota - soprano
Pedro Lopez - flute
Panaretos Kyriatzidis - collaborative pianist
Lizzie Holmes soprano & host
Sam Peña - resident pianist & improvisor
Experience DEBUT's flagship secret concert at the magical Shoreditch Treehouse, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Shoreditch, with a Steinway Concert Grand piano under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights.
MUSICIANS
Guest singer - coming soon
Guest instrumentalist - coming soon
Guest collaborative pianist - coming soon
Lizzie Holmes soprano & host
Sam Peña - resident pianist & improvisor
DEBUT Blog
Saxophonist Rob Burton introduces five pieces that have been touchstones throughout his musical life, each one offering a glimpse into the influences that continue to inspire him.
Introducing PRX.LIVE - the UK’s exciting new platform for contemporary music, presented by music magazine PRXLUDES!
We caught up with artistic director Zygmund de Somogyi, following the launch in February 2026.
On Thursday 4th June we returned to The Queens House for another magical Secret Concert.
The gallery of photos below was taken by Edd Ramasasa.
Join Kaishun Ypsilantis as she shares five pieces that have left a lasting mark on her musical life. Spanning beloved classics, transformative discoveries, and enduring favourites.
Step into the musical world of clarinettist Poppy Beddoe and explore the repertoire that inspires her playing. From towering symphonies and operatic favourites to unexpected pop classics, these are the works that have helped shape her sound and artistic voice.
If you joined us for our April secret concert at the Brunel Museum, you might have spotted the new bakery just across the road - Simplicity.
Enter the sound world of baritone Patrick Dow and uncover the music behind his artistry. From dramatic operatic roles to musical theatre, discover the works that have helped shape his expressive and versatile voice.
On Saturday 28th March we returned to Shoreditch Treehouse for a wonderful Secret Concert.
The gallery of photos below was taken by Marc Gascoigne.
In conversation with DEBUT founder, Lizzie Holmes. What does a sustainable career in classical music look like in today’s industry? ClassicalConnect is a space to ask questions, gain insight, and feel less alone in your journey.
Step inside the sound world of mezzo-soprano Lydia Shariff and explore the music that has influenced her path. From opera and oratorio to folk, jazz, and contemporary works, discover the pieces that shape her distinctive artistry and expressive voice.
Discover the music that has shaped guitarist Zoe Barnett’s journey. From beloved classical pieces to innovative contemporary works, explore the repertoire behind Zoe’s distinctive guitar artistry.
SongEasel founder & collaborative pianist Jocelyn Freeman shares her tips for Young Artists as the SongEasel Young Artist Programme reaches its sixth year.
What makes DEBUT at Queens House so special?
Founder Lizzie Holmes shares the thinking, the vision and the story behind our newest secret concert series.
Discover the music that has accompanied the journey of violinist Pietro Genova Gaia, from his early years in Italy to his flourishing career in London. In this series, he highlights five pieces that have stirred, stretched, and shaped him - spanning beloved classics and more contemporary voices. An intimate glimpse into the repertoire that continues to influence his evolving voice.
On Saturday 29th November we held our first official charity event, our “Play It Forward” Gala at Shoreditch Treehouse.
A huge thank you to the superstar musicians who joined us: Sam Peña, Pedro Lopez, Meriel Cunningham, Alex Aldren & Rieko Makita.
Explore the music that has shaped the artistry of pianist and composer Rieko Makita. In this edition, the award-winning musician shares five pieces that have inspired, challenged, and guided her - from vivid contemporary works to the classics that have accompanied her journey from Sydney to the Royal Albert Hall. A brief, personal window into the sounds that continue to define her voice.
Discover the music that shaped the journey of clarinetist and DEBUT’s Head of Operations, Hannah Shilvock. In this series, she shares 5 pieces - from timeless classics to bold modern works - that inspired, challenged, and moved her, offering a personal glimpse into the music that continues to define her artistry.
While Halloween is usually a time for horror films and ghost walks, we at DEBUT think there’s a far more decadent way to indulge your dark side - through opera.
Something exciting is coming…
We’re thrilled to partner with The Nudge. bringing our secret concerts to Londoners seeking unique live music, hidden venues, and unforgettable cultural experiences across the city.
Introducing a fresh new take on playing one of the oldest instruments.. meet Otto Hashmi.
Catch him on 10th July at Brunel Museum.
On Thursday 19th June we held our first secret concerts at the magical Queens House in Greenwich.
The gallery of photos below was taken by Marc Gascoigne.
It’s usually Lizzie who gives you the inside scoop on which opera shows to catch each summer, but this time I’ve got one for you! I’m thrilled to be touring with OperaUpClose for their summer production - OperaCocktail. Can’t wait to share it with you!
At DEBUT, we’re all about spotlighting what’s next in the classical world, and this year’s Proms are seriously delivering. Hannah caught up with Ellie Ajao - proms expert, freelance author and presenter - to get her top picks for the 2025 season.
On Friday 21st February, we returned to Shoreditch Treehouse for an absolutely magical evening.
The gallery of photos below was taken by Marc Gascoigne.
Hannah has had a sneak peak of the new album by cellist, composer & conductor Zara Hudson-Kozdoj. So I embarked on a soundtrack to my life.
We kicked off our 2025 season by returning to our flagship venue, Shoreditch Treehouse, for a stunning, intimate evening of music by the wonderful Declan Hickey, Justyna Rapacz, Lizzie Holmes, Przemek Winnicki & Sam Peña.
I like my current balance of splitting my time between the two countries. I love London; most of my family and friends are based here, plus in my controversial opinion, the food here is better…!
Introducing Susie Winkworth: cellist, arranger, composer and the co-founder of Map a Muso - the online atlas of musical talent, connecting musicians to local gigs!
To kick off our magical 2025 Secret Concert season, we have London based classical guitarist Declan Hickey making his debut with us on the 24th January at Shoreditch Treehouse.
As we close the curtain on another exciting year, at DEBUT we are reflecting on all the incredible moments that 2024 has brought. From breathtaking concerts to the inspiring musicians we've collaborated with, this year has been one of growth, connection, and celebration of music in all its forms.
Love what we’re doing?
Your help could make a big difference. Donations help DEBUT champion world-class emerging musicians, create magical concerts in unique spaces, and connect with audiences in a more intimate way.
DEBUT’s founder Lizzie Holmes chatting with one of our Secret Concert guests
Experience DEBUT’s atmospheric Secret Concert series south of the rive at the Brunel Museum, set inside the extraordinary Thames Tunnel Shaft — a hidden, cathedral-like chamber with breathtaking acoustics. Expect candlelit cabaret seating, soaring brick walls, and world-class musicians performing just a few feet away.
MUSICIANS
Rhydian Jenkins tenor
Rob Burton saxophone
Thomas Ang collaborative piano
Lizzie Holmes soprano & host
Nathan Tinker pianist improvisor