The festival was created on the initiative of Jane Anthony in partnership with a group of individuals and Leeds College of Music. The pianist Joseph Middleton was appointed Director of Leeds Lieder in December 2014 and in 2017 it was decided that the Festival should become an annual event.

There is a Leeds Lieder Young Artists programme whereby a number of the finest next generation of Lieder singers and pianists are chosen. They will be coached by well known professionals such as John Mark Ainsley, Sir Thomas Allen, Malcolm Martineau and Richard Stokes, and will perform in a showcase concert.

For more detailed information, see website