2024: a year with DEBUT
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.
A Year in Numbers
3 Christmas concerts!
7 new compositions by resident pianist & improvisor Sam Peña premiered at our secret concerts, to form the ‘DEBUT Suite’
10 different instruments showcased - including GuZheng, bass clarinet and harp!
13 superstar different opera singers & 16 instrumentalists took the secret concert stage
16 secret concerts at Brunel Museum & Shoreditch Treehouse
21 musicians took part in our ground-breaking classical networking event ‘open-stage’
22 5* google reviews
Over 30 musicians were given the experience of performing with the Royal Opera House through our partnership
41 musicians and singers took part in opera-in-a-day: La Bohème
Highlights of 2024
On top of the outstanding musicians that have worked with us this year, the number of sold-out concerts and an ever growing community - 2024 has been a huge year for DEBUT.
A Thriving Volunteering Scheme
At the start of the year, we launched our volunteering scheme with a simple call to our mailing list for help setting up concerts — and the response was overwhelming! This has turned out to be one of the most rewarding initiatives we've undertaken, as we welcomed incredible new members into the DEBUT family. A special highlight was Shoreditch Treehouse volunteer Hannah Linney, who went above and beyond to not only support our concerts but also delighted audiences with a beautiful piano solo at our Christmas performances.
The start of the ‘DEBUT Suite’ by Sam Peña
Our resident pianist improvisor Sam Peña is more than a talented pianist. As a composer he has recently written a musical - One Shoe of Each Colour.
Sam has composed a new piece for our guest musicians for most months this year. Check out his Tanguito for flute and piano, played by flautist Rianna Henriques.
And we cannot forget about the stunning concert photography by Marc Gascoigne
Our continued work with photographer Marc Gascoigne has allowed us to capture more stunning photos from our secret concerts than ever before. Marc's incredible talent and eye for detail have beautifully preserved the magic of our performances.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we step into the new year, we are excited to continue building on this momentum. Expect more secret concerts, fresh collaborations, and more opportunities to experience the magic of live classical music with DEBUT. Stay tuned for what’s to come - we have a dream season lined up with more of the UK and Europe’s top singers and instrumentalists, with more variety than ever. Expect the return of DEBUT regulars past and present, and be introduced to new upcoming stars!
Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey in 2024. Whether you attended a concert, performed with us, or supported DEBUT in any way – we are endlessly grateful.
Here’s to another year of music, connection, and creativity!
Happy New Year from all of us at DEBUT.
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
Justyna Rapacz mezzo soprano
Declan Hickey guitar
Przemek Winnicki piano
Lizzie Holmes soprano, host & founder
Sam Peña resident piano improviser