Highlights include: The English Concert presents its concert programme for Autumn 2024, celebrating the legacy of baroque composers Bach and Handel, led by the musicians who continue to champion their works. The orchestra will be led by Kristian Bezuidenhout and Harry Bicket, in addition to collaborating with stellar soloists including Iestyn Davies, Lucy Crowe, Katie Bray, Alexander Chance, James Way …
The i Paper – five stars for a “simply breathtaking” St John Passion
In a dark and meaningful yet beautifully powerful performance, alto, Jess Dandy, was superb. Under the direction of Francesco Corti, its small chorus might have been a cast of thousands, so powerfully did they project. Their opening, where the music seemed to be emerging threateningly from the bowels of the earth, had gripping force. Bach’s St John Passion, Good Friday, …
Planet Hugill – “sophisticated music making” at Wigmore Hall
A profoundly satisfying account with dramatic urgency complemented by intimacy and tenderness in a performance of the Passion that brought a sense of drama and sophisticated music making. Bach’s St John Passion, Good Friday, 2025
The ‘Foundling Hospital Anthem’ and Handel’s enduring philanthropy
A note from Coram.
Brockes Passion – Part 1
“when the English Concert and this vocal ensemble came together under the direction of Harry Bicket, as part of the London Handel Festival, the sound was something of an Easter miracle.”.
Foundling Hospital Anthem
Handel’s Foundling Hospital Anthem explores how caring for those in need and supporting the vulnerable can create change, both for others and in ourselves. In a world that sometimes feels fractured and divided, this anthem brings a message of unity and hope, encouraging us to reflect on how we can make a difference in the lives of others.
B Minor Mass – Solemnity and splendour
“Bach’s holiness has its wild, rough and earthy side: her punk virtuosity with this most untameable of brass beasts made it thrillingly audible” “…singers and players alike glowed, gripped and soared. In the right hands, and voices, Bach’s great farewell portmanteau can always sound, and feel, freshly-made” The Arts Desk