Nicola Benedetti brings festival experience to patients and staff

We were delighted to welcome Nicola Benedetti, Director of the Edinburgh International Festival and world-renowned violinist, to the Royal Infirmary and the Royal Hospital for Children & Young People in Edinburgh to play for patients, families and staff. Her performance was part of the NHS Festival Sessions, a heartfelt collaboration with the Edinburgh International Festival, bringing world-class live music directly into NHS Lothian hospitals.

Nicola, accompanied by classical guitarist Plínio Fernandes, began the day with an intimate performance for renal dialysis patients in the outpatient’s department at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, offering a moment of calm and connection in a clinical setting. She then continued to the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, where she performed a joyful public session for children, families, and staff. To make the experience even more special, children were given their very own Festival tickets, which were ceremoniously “ripped” on entry — just like at a traditional concert — creating a sense of occasion and excitement, and helping them feel part of something truly magical.

Now in its second year, the NHS Festival Sessions are a year-round programme that brings International Festival artists into healthcare settings — creating powerful moments of musical and emotional connection for patients, families, staff, and volunteers. Past performances have featured the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Bamberger Symphoniker, and the Philharmonia Orchestra, with visits to sites including the Western General Hospital, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, and St John’s Hospital in Livingston.

Len McCaffer, Tonic Arts Manager at NHS Lothian Charity, said: “Our partnership with the Edinburgh International Festival through the NHS Festival Sessions is a fantastic way to bring the transformative power of music directly into our hospitals. These year-round performances are a hugely anticipated part of our participatory arts calendar, making live performances accessible for those who would otherwise be unable to attend. It is such a privilege to work together to bring world-class artists and musicians like Nicola Benedetti to perform directly to our patients, staff, and volunteers. Witnessing the joy and emotional connection these live sessions create, really demonstrates the importance and positive impact of the arts on wellbeing.”

Festival Director Nicola Benedetti said: “I believe in removing barriers to cultural discovery. Everyone is invited to the International Festival – that’s why half of our tickets will be sold for £30 or less, and by extending our performances into community and healthcare settings, we’re reaching people where they are, and bringing a taste of the Festival to those who may be unable to attend.”

We’re so proud to continue this partnership and to witness the difference that live music can make in healthcare spaces.

Nicola’s visit reflects her wider Festival vision: to make the life-enhancing experience of live performance accessible to all — including those who may not be able to attend traditional venues. This year’s Festival continues to break down barriers to cultural participation through a range of affordability and access initiatives, including:

£10 affordable tickets for every event using the code INVITED
Over 1,000 donated tickets for NHS staff, charity workers, and low-income benefit recipients (in partnership with Tickets for Good)
2,500+ free tickets for Scotland’s young musicians aged 8–18 through the Young Musician’s Pass
Half-price tickets for under 18s and D/deaf, disabled & neurodivergent audiences

Image credit: Mihaela Bodlovic