Information for Observers
The Oxford Piano Festival explores the art of piano playing in all its guises, from masterclasses and solo recitals to concerto performances alongside the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra. We welcome many distinguished names to the festival and our masterclass programme offers the opportunity for emerging artists to learn from the wisdom of greats of the piano world.
Our Piano Festival Observers form an integral part of the Oxford Piano Festival community. As well as providing access to all the festival events and masterclasses, Observer Pass holders have the opportunity to chat with both our renowned soloists, professors and piano festival participants over tea and coffee and drinks receptions held at the stunning St Hilda’s College. All our Participants and Observers are presented with certificates of attendance in the festival’s closing ceremony to celebrate the community formed during the week.
Venues
Situated opposite the picturesque Christ Church Meadows, there is plenty to explore on the tranquil grounds of St Hilda’s College. Festival venues range from the state of the art Jaqueline du Pre Music Building at St Hilda’s, to the Holywell Music Room, the first purpose built concert hall in Europe. Those attending the festival evening recitals can explore the beautiful architecture of Christ Church Cathedral, Merton College Chapel and the Sir Christopher Wren designed Sheldonian Theatre.
Accommodation
For a fully immersive festival experience, we invite our Observer Pass holders to purchase full-board accommodation at St Hilda’s College, Oxford, where all our masterclasses and many of the festival recitals will be held. There three levels of accommodation available with both twin and single rooms. Details of these can be found on our Shop page.
Exploring Oxford
As well as attending recitals and masterclasses, Observers can spend their week exploring the historic city of Oxford. Famous for its ‘Dreaming Spires’, Oxford boasts attractions such as the historic University of Oxford colleges, the majestic Bodleian Library, and Radcliffe Camera. Visitors can marvel at the Ashmolean Museum’s collections, explore Christ Church Cathedral, and relax at the Botanic Garden. Enjoy the quintessential Oxford experience of punting on the River Cherwell, which runs through the grounds of St Hilda’s College itself.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Travel to Oxford:
Oxford is easily accessible, situated just a one-hour train ride from central London.
The Oxford Bus Company (01865 785 400 / www.oxfordbus.co.uk/airline) run a coach service from Heathrow and Gatwick airports named ‘the airline’. Stagecoach runs a 24-hour coach service between Oxford and Central London (0345 241 8000 / www.oxfordtube.com). There are frequent rail services from London Paddington and London Marylebone to Oxford (information from National Rail Enquiries on 0345 748 4950 / www.nationalrail.co.uk). Our staff are happy to advise you about your journey to and from the Festival.
Transport to Concerts:
All concerts are within walking distance (under 1 mile) of St Hilda’s College. The office can organise taxis at an additional cost for those who would prefer not to walk. We advise using public transport where possible as there is limited parking available at St Hilda’s College and in the city centre.
Arrival and Registration:
Festival staff will be at St Hilda’s College to welcome participants and observers and show them to their accommodation. Please aim to register at the JdP Music Building by 14:00.
Accommodation and Meals:
Staying on the St Hilda’s campus provides a peaceful, tranquil backdrop to the Festival, alongside being the easiest access to all festival events. Full board accommodation (including meals) at St Hilda’s College is available on a first come first served basis, with priority given to Observer Pass holders.
Requests for part-time accommodation at St Hilda’s will only be accepted, subject to availability, in early July.
Food and Drink:
Meals are included with accommodation packages at St Hilda’s College, starting with dinner on 26 July and ending with lunch on 3 August. Many restaurants, cafes, and bars are also just a 10-minute walk away.
Dress code:
There is no set dress code for any of the events. However, some audience members choose to dress smart casual for our evening recitals.
2025 Festival Prices:
Festival Passes:
Observer £390 (entry to all events)
Please note that accommodation is not included in the Festival Passes and should be purchased separately.
Full-board single-room accommodation:
Standard £750 (with shared bathroom)
Ensuite £875 (with private bathroom)
Anniversary Building £975 (premium ensuite)
Full-board for 2 people sharing twin-room accommodation:
Standard £1,225 (with shared bathroom)
Ensuite £1,350 (with private bathroom)
Anniversary Building £1,500 (premium ensuite)
Payment Deadline
4 July 2025
Festival passes and full board accommodation are sold separately and can be purchased from February 2025.
If you have any questions about the application process or attending the Festival, please contact Lydia Bennett, Education Officer at opoeducation@oxfordphil.com.
How to Book:
Tel: 01865 980 980
Email: boxoffice@oxfordphil.com
Online: oxfordpianofestival.com
Cancellation Policy:
Observers who withdraw from the Festival will receive a refund of all but £50 if withdrawn by 4 July 2025. Those who withdraw after 4 July will also have additional expenses incurred by the Festival deducted from their refund.
Deadlines
Observers:
4 July 2025 payment deadline
Prices
Masterclasses £12.50 (no concessions)
Other events are priced individually
Book 7+ events for a 10% discount
Alternatively, purchase an Observer Festival Pass
for access to all events.
How to Book
Tel: 01865 980 980
Email: boxoffice@oxfordphil.com
Online: oxfordpianofestival.com
If you have any questions about the application process or attending the Festival, please contact Lydia Bennett, Education Officer.