Play It Forward – DEBUT’s First Gala
Saturday 29 November, 4:00–6:30 PM
Shoreditch Treehouse, London
An Afternoon of Music, Conversation and Purpose
Join us for DEBUT’s first-ever gala, Play It Forward — a special afternoon of song, conversation, and celebration in support of DEBUT’s charitable mission to empower emerging classical musicians and reimagine how audiences experience live classical music.
Hosted by Lizzie Holmes (Artistic Director) and Jonathan Tester (Chair of Trustees), the event brings together live performance and open discussion about DEBUT’s journey so far, what we’ve achieved together, and where we’re headed next.
Enjoy guest performances from some of our favourite DEBUT artists, hear behind-the-scenes stories from Lizzie and Jonathan, and discover how your support can help us continue to play it forward — nurturing the next generation of exceptional musicians and connecting new audiences to classical music in fresh, inspiring ways.
Programme
4:00 PM – Doors open, welcome drink
4:20 PM – First Set – 2 songs • Conversation • 2 songs
5:00 PM – Interval (refreshments served)
5:30 PM – Second Set – 2 songs • Conversation • 2 songs
6:15 PM – Closing remarks and thanks
6:30 PM – Event ends
The Conversation
Between each set, Lizzie Holmes and Jonathan Tester will share stories and reflections from DEBUT’s past, present, and future — exploring what makes this community so special and how your support makes a difference.
Part I: The Journey So Far
How DEBUT began — from a spark of an idea at Shoreditch Treehouse.
What makes DEBUT different: intimacy, storytelling, connection.
The impact so far: over 300 emerging artists supported, and thousands inspired through our Secret Concerts.
Why we’ve formalised as a charitable organisation — to protect and expand our mission.
Part II: Looking Ahead
The Horizon Project and how it’s shaping artist development beyond the stage.
Building a community through mentorship, musician forums, and wellbeing support.
Championing fair pay, inclusion, and innovation in classical music.
Our vision for 2026: national reach, new partnerships, and fresh concert formats.
How tonight’s support helps us realise that vision — ensuring DEBUT can keep “playing it forward.”
Why It Matters
Every action counts — from raising awareness to giving directly, your support helps DEBUT to:
Create performance and mentoring opportunities for emerging classical musicians.
Engage new and underrepresented audiences through storytelling and innovation.
Ensure fair pay and wellbeing for artists.
Bring classical music to unexpected spaces through creative venue partnerships
Together, we’re building a more vibrant, connected future for classical music.
Tickets
Spaces are limited.
To reserve your place, please email hello@debut.org.uk and tell us a little about why you’d like to attend.
Venue notes
📍 Shoreditch Treehouse, London (address shared on booking)
🎹 Join Sam on the Steinway during the break
🥂 Drinks provided
🚶♀️ 3rd floor walk-up (no lift access)
Musicians
We are immensely grateful to the musicians who are donating their time and expertise to help support this event.
Sam Peña resident pianist
Meriel Cunningham mezzo soprano
Hannah Shilvock bass clarinet
Kang Yang guzheng
Rieko Makita pianist
Pedro Lopez flute
