* Huddersfield Mrs Sunderland Festival

‘Susannah Sunderland (nee Sykes) was a famous soprano soloist, born in Brighouse, near Huddersfield, in 1819. Her natural talent for singing was noticed by local blacksmith Luke Settle, himself a singer, who first trained her voice, and she subsequently was taught by other respected local amateur musicians ... She retired from the concert platform aged only 45, whilst still in her prime. She celebrated her Golden Wedding Anniversary in 1888 and this was the occasion of a special concert at which she was presented with a glowing testimonial in illuminated script (unfortunately now lost) ... With the money raised from the Golden Wedding concert, a committee of distinguished local men decided to start a Vocal Solo Competition to be held in Huddersfield and named as a tribute to this great Yorkshire soprano. It was initially for singers but later expanded to include pianists alternating annually with violinists.‘ Held Mid February.