The Big House Arts Festival presents 'A Portrait of Giulia'

The Big House Arts Festival proudly presents 'A Portrait of Giulia' in the stunning surroundings of Lincoln Cathedral's Chapter House.

Join us for an evening of Jazz & Aperetivo on Saturday 11th April, as part of our inaugural festival weekend in Lincoln.

Rising star of the UK jazz scene, clarinet player and vocalist Giulia Marro released her debut album ‘A Portrait of Giulia’ in March 2025.

Having studied at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Royal Conservatoire of the Hague Giulia’s playing is steeped in tradition whilst remaining fresh and current due to her emotive improvisations. Whilst she is inspired mainly by the swing and bebop eras, Giulia’s original music has reflections of folk and blues music.

“Giulia’s composing and playing combines creativity and craft in an immensely memorable fashion and truly marks her out as a Voice with a capital ‘V’…” - North London Jazz Collective

As an accomplished band leader Giulia has led bands across the UK in popular jazz venues and captivates audiences with her warm, melody centred clarinet playing., Giulia is also a vocalist and takes inspiration from the likes of Anita O’Day, Carmen McRae and many more.

Tom Ward is a virtuosic piano player making waves on the UK jazz scene with recent performance highlights including the Royal Albert Hall, the Ladbroke Hall and many more.

Inspired by piano hero’s, Art Tatum, Fats Waller and Teddy Wilson, Tom’s stride playing is rooted within the piano tradition.

Tom has performed all over the UK and internationally as a side man alongside Pete Horsfall, Giacomo Smith, Adrian Cox and more as well as leading his own bands.

Tom and Giulia have played together in various settings but have always loved playing duo. This long-standing duo draw on a strong shared history of playing together, resulting in tight interaction, expressive phrasing, and an unmistakable sense of connection. During this gig you can expect music from Giulia’s debut album alongside songs from the jazz canon that have become favourites between the duo.

Photo credit - James Christos

The Big House Arts Festival is a multi-arts festival bringing classical chamber music, jazz, visual art and educational events to Lincoln Cathedral.

Launching in 2026 in the Cathedral’s Chapter House, the festival brings together leading musicians and artists for a carefully curated programme of concerts, exhibitions and masterclasses set within one of England’s most remarkable buildings.

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