Music and art have been part of the fabric of Leighton House since it was built in 1866. Designed by Lord Leighton's friend George Aitchinson, it has always been a place for parties, and the celebration of art and music both throughout Leighton's lifetime, and almost continuously since his death through to the present day. Famous musicians and singers who have performed at Leighton House include Clara Schumann in 1881, Sir Charles Halle, Kreisler, Pauline Viardot, Harry Plunkett Greene, Joseph Joachim, Sir George Henschel and Adelaide Sartoris among others. Concerts were attended by the elite of the day, such as the Prince of Wales, Robert Browning and George Eliot.

Leighton House is unique and outstandingly beautiful. The collection of marvellous Pre-Raphaelite pictures and tiles from the east set in Lord Leighton's exotic Arabian fantasy combine to form an unparalleled setting. Nowhere else in London is so fortunate in the superb combination of its venue and its music: its size being perfect for chamber music and its location and lovely garden within easy reach.

With thanks to John Ballantyne for his kind permission to use his material from Music at Leighton House.