Bristol Ensemble

Baroque ’n’ Roll
2026-04-24 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | The Princess Theatre and Arts Centre, Princess Street, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, TA8 1EH
Get ready for a night where the harpsichord meets the headbang! Baroque ’n’ Roll features a programme of much-loved Baroque favourites alongside modern classics. You can expect everything from Bach and Vivaldi to a few surprises from Queen and Metallica, for a fantastically eclectic evening. Performed by the dynamic Bristol Ensemble, this concert blurs the line between classical refinement and rock rebellion!

Vivaldi's Trumpets
2026-05-08 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St John’s Church, Church Street, Frome, BA11 1PL
The Bristol Ensemble returns to St John’s Church, Frome with a programme full of energy and colour, featuring Vivaldi’s much-loved Concerto for Two Trumpets and Geminiani’s La Folia.
Vivaldi’s concerto shows off the bright, clear sound of the trumpet in music that’s lively and full of character, while Geminiani’s La Folia takes a simple tune and transforms it into a set of dramatic and playful variations.
This concert brings together the brilliant sound of trumpets with the rich warmth of the strings, performed by musicians from the Bristol Ensemble in an evening that celebrates the beauty and imagination of Baroque music.

Henleaze Concert Society: From Grace to Grandeur
2026-05-09 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Mozart Divertimento in D
Stamitz Concerto for Flute, Oboe and Strings in G major
Schubert Octet
This refined and radiant programme brings together three masters of the Classical and early Romantic eras, offering a journey from sparkling elegance to expansive lyricism.
Mozart’s Divertimento in D opens the concert with charm and vitality. Written for strings, this bright and buoyant work captures the composer’s signature wit and grace. Originally intended as light entertainment, it’s filled with poised melodies, graceful dance movements, and the effortless brilliance of Mozart at his most genial.
We continue with Carl Stamitz’s Concerto for Flute, Oboe, and Strings in G major—a graceful and spirited dialogue between two soloists. As a leading figure of the Mannheim School, Stamitz brings clarity, elegance, and a touch of operatic flair to this delightful concerto, blending Classical poise with expressive nuance.
The programme concludes with Schubert’s magnificent Octet, a monumental work for eight players that bridges the intimacy of chamber music with symphonic ambition. Rich in melody and emotional range, it flows through moments of lyrical beauty, lively rustic dances, and deep reflection—an expansive and deeply human musical conversation.
Pre-concert talk with Steve Clarke begins at 6.45pm. Doors open at 6.15pm for the talk and at 7.15pm for the concert only. If coming to the concert only, we should be grateful if you would try to avoid arriving during the talk.
Individual concert prices
Tickets for Henleaze Concert Society members £17.50
Tickets for non members £21
Under 25 year olds £5
The ticket price includes the pre concert talk, a programme and interval drink.
How to book
Book tickets online at Bristol Ensemble’s online box office.
You can also book by sending a cheque payable to Henleaze Concert Society, covering note and SAE to 2 Saville Mews, Kingsdown Parade, Bristol BS6 5UL
Tickets are available on the door from 6.15pm.
Season Tickets and Annual Society Membership
Season tickets are only £100 including Society Membership and admission to all six concerts from September to July. Alternatively, becoming a member of Henleaze Concert Society for £15 entitles you to book tickets for individual concerts at the members’ discounted rate. Season tickets and membership are available to buy by post by returning the Ticket Order Form with your payment and a stamped addressed envelope.

Bath Choral Society: Dido and Aeneas
2026-05-09 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ, United Kingdom
Purcell Dido and Aeneas
Handel Dixit Dominus
Bath Choral Society
Bristol Ensemble
Stephanie Bodsworth and Rebecca Bottone sopranos
Olivia Ray alto
Eamonn Mulhall tenor
Philip Smith bass
Katrine Reimers conductor
Was ever a tragic love story more poignantly told?
Dido and Aeneas, the seventeenth-century gem depicting the abandonment of the Queen of Carthage, is a serious contender for the greatest English opera of all time. Purcell’s take on the story from Virgil’s Aeneid involves the chorus at every stage of the action. Underpinned with a powerful immediacy and simplicity, it has long had a broad appeal. The work’s emotional climax, “When I am laid in earth”, is as devastating as it is exquisite.
This concert performance is paired with another great masterpiece from the Baroque – Handel’s Dixit Dominus. Handel, ever a master of drama, brings to this choral Psalm setting a range of colours so broad that it might even take fans of his Messiah by surprise.

Nailsworth: Schubert Octet
2026-05-10 15:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Franz Schubert Octet in F Major, D 803
Bristol Ensemble’s professional musicians perform Schubert’s celebrated masterpiece, the Octet for wind and strings. The work enjoys enduring popularity for its sumptuous melodies and harmonic twists and turns. Commissioned by a famous clarinettist of the day in 1824, it is considered to be one of the greatest chamber works ever composed.
Tea and cakes served at 4pm. Tickets £15 (£13 low incomes, £5 under 18s), available on the door and online at the Bristol Ensemble box office.

Preludes Music concert
2026-05-19 12:30 - 14:15 (Europe/London) | St Mary Redcliffe Church, Colston Parade, BS1 6RA
Local children from Bristol Ensemble’s award-winning music education programme take to the stage to perform in their annual Preludes Music concert.
The children will be supported by the Preludes Music band and Bristol Ensemble players, delivering a wonderful learning experience for the children, and a fantastic concert for audience members.
Preludes Music is an education programme run by the Bristol Ensemble. Preludes has been working with children in under-resourced local communities for 15 years – delivering music education and life-enriching cultural experiences to children who have few opportunities to access music and the arts.

String Masterworks with Leon Bosch
2026-05-20 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble
Leon Bosch director/double bass
Britten Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge
Barber Adagio for Strings
Woodborne Red Ink
Elgar Introduction and Allegro
Experience an evening of some of the most powerful and beloved works in the string repertoire, performed by Bristol Ensemble under the direction of Leon Bosch.
At the heart of the programme are three iconic masterpieces: Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber, the radiant Introduction and Allegro by Edward Elgar, and the brilliant Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge by Benjamin Britten, each one a masterwork of the string repertoire.
Alongside these celebrated works, Bosch performs the deeply moving Red Ink: Concerto for Double Bass and String Orchestra by Shane Woodborne, taking on the rare dual role of soloist and conductor, leading the ensemble directly from the double bass.
Red Ink serves as a musical memorial to the Soweto Uprising of 1976 where thousands of South African students protested against apartheid-era education policies. For Bosch, who was himself a student activist during the events of 1976, the work carries a deeply personal resonance.
This Bristol performance of Red Ink also forms part of a wider project with BBC Radio 3, charting Leon Bosch’s life and artistic journey in the context of the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising.
Leon Bosch
Leon Bosch has built an international career as a performer and conductor and is one of the few double bass players to conduct chamber and symphonic ensembles directly from the instrument. A prolific recording artist with twenty solo albums, he is a committed advocate for new music, collaborating with contemporary composers to expand and diversify the double bass repertoire.
Red Ink was commissioned by the Matseer Diabelli Sommer festival and is dedicated to the bassist Leon Bosch.
Tickets are available from St George’s Bristol box office online, by phone on 0117 929 4929 and over the counter at St George’s.

Henleaze Concert Society: Summer Serenade
2026-06-06 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Vivaldi Summer from The Four Seasons
Mozart Flute Quartet in D, K285
Rutter Suite Antique
Vivaldi String Concerto in A, RV 158
Bach Air on the G string
Pachelbel Canon and Gigue
Henleaze Concert Society’s season closes with a delightful programme of music suitable for a summer’s evening including Vivaldi’s ever-popular Summer from The Four Seasons, and the graceful elegance of Mozart’s much-loved Flute Quartet, a work full of lyrical charm, sparkling dialogue and effortless wit.
John Rutter’s Suite Antique offers a playful nod to earlier musical styles, blending baroque-inspired dance movements with the composer’s unmistakable melodic warmth and colour. Written for flute, harpsichord and strings, it moves from lively to reflective with irresistible charm. Enduringly popular works complete the programme include Bach’s Air on the G string and Pachebel’s Canon and Gigue.
Pre-concert talk with Steve Clarke begins at 6.45pm. Doors open at 6.15pm for the talk and at 7.15pm for the concert only. If coming to the concert only, we should be grateful if you would try to avoid arriving during the talk.
Individual concert prices
Tickets for Henleaze Concert Society members £17.50
Tickets for non members £21
Under 25 year olds £5
The ticket price includes the pre concert talk, a programme and interval drink.
How to book
Book tickets online at Bristol Ensemble’s online box office.
You can also book by sending a cheque payable to Henleaze Concert Society, covering note and SAE to 2 Saville Mews, Kingsdown Parade, Bristol BS6 5UL
Tickets are available on the door from 6.15pm.
Season Tickets and Annual Society Membership
Season tickets are only £100 including Society Membership and admission to all six concerts from September to July. Alternatively, becoming a member of Henleaze Concert Society for £15 entitles you to book tickets for individual concerts at the members’ discounted rate. Season tickets and membership are available to buy by post by returning the Ticket Order Form with your payment and a stamped addressed envelope.

Nailsworth: Summer Serenade
2026-06-07 15:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
John Rutter Suite Antique
Mozart Flute Quartet
Vivaldi Summer from The Four Seasons
Bach Air on the G String
Principal players from the Bristol Ensemble present a delightful afternoon of chamber music including Vivaldi’s enduringly-popular Summer from The Four Seasons, and the graceful elegance of Mozart’s much-loved Flute Quartet, a work full of lyrical charm, sparkling dialogue and effortless wit.
John Rutter’s Suite Antique offers a playful nod to earlier musical styles, blending baroque-inspired dance movements with Rutter’s unmistakable melodic warmth and colour. Written for flute, harpsichord and strings, it moves from lively to reflective with irresistible charm. Bach’s beautifully lyrical Air on the G String completes the programme.
Tea and cakes served at 4pm. Tickets £15 (£13 low incomes, £5 under 18s), available on the door and online at the Bristol Ensemble box office.

Preludes Music school concerts
2026-06-09 10:00 - 13:00 (Europe/London) | Bristol, Bristol
Bristol Ensemble’s new project BE Inspired was launched in Spring 2024 to bring Bristol Ensemble performances and interactive learning experiences to children who may otherwise be unlikely to access live music and culture.
BE Inspired includes visits to schools by a 12-piece orchestra, performances of engaging and relevant classical and contemporary pieces, and interactive sessions where strings, woodwind and brass instruments are introduced, and children can ask questions and get involved.

Valley Arts Summer Serenade
2026-06-10 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | The Paddock, Chew Magna Cricket Ground, The Paddock, Chew Magna, BS40 8SF, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble returns to Chew Valley this summer for a special outdoor concert on the paddock next to Chew Magna Cricket Ground.
Bring a chair or picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxed evening of live music in a beautiful setting. Their Summer Serenade programme celebrates the sounds of nature through sparkling Baroque masterpieces by including Pachelbel’s Canon, Vivaldi’s Summer from The Four Seasons, Mozart’s Overture to The Marriage of Figaro, Bach’s Air on the G String and many more.
Sit back and enjoy music inspired by birdsong, flowing water, and the calm of the countryside – an uplifting summer evening of elegance, atmosphere, and outstanding musicianship under the open sky!
In the event of bad weather the concert will take place at St Andrew’s Church, Chew Magna.

CANCELLED: Renew that Song: Bristol Cathedral's Summer Concert
2026-06-18 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/London) | Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TJ, United Kingdom
*Please note that this event has been cancelled – ticket purchasers will be contacted by the Bristol Beacon box office*
Bristol Cathedral Choir and the brass of Bristol Ensemble join forces for a programme of choral classics as part of the cathedral’s Grand Organ Festival.
Including iconic works such as Parry’s Blest Pair of Sirens and I Was Glad, the evening will be a celebration of the cathedral’s restored 340-year-old organ, renewed for another century of supporting music making in Bristol Cathedral.
With a bar available, grab a drink and join us for an evening of musical excellence, collaboration and shared music-making between two of Bristol’s most significant musical ensembles.
Presented by Bristol Cathedral Choir.

Summer Serenade: Baroque Classics
2026-06-19 19:30 - 21:10 (Europe/London) | The Mission Theatre, 32 Corn Street, Bath, BA1 1UF, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble returns to The Mission Theatre with a Summer Serenade, a vibrant programme celebrating the beauty and vitality of nature through sparkling Baroque masterpieces.
Featuring Pachelbel’s Canon in D, Summer from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, the overture from Mozart’s opera The Marriage of Figaro, Bach’s Air on the G String and many more.
Enjoy an uplifting evening of elegance, atmosphere and exceptional musicianship!
What audiences are saying…
“Wonderful venue and brilliant concert!”
“Such fun, infectious enthusiasm!!”
“Excellent evening”
“Fabulous! We love Bristol Ensemble and this was amazing!”

BE Together
2026-07-14 11:00 - 15:30 (Europe/London)
Bristol Ensemble proudly presents another round of ‘BE Together’ concerts – a heartwarming project that brings live music to older people across Bristol and the surrounding region.

Our intimate concerts feature a beautiful mix of classical music and popular songs, performed by a singer, pianist, violinist and cellist from the Bristol Ensemble. Each programme is carefully curated to spark memories, offer comfort and bring joy.

In 2025, we brought music to 7 care homes and 2 dementia services, reaching just over 165 older people in a range of settings. This year, we are visiting 12 different care services across 4 days of concerts in Bristol and the surrounding areas.

“The music triggers something in their memories, it’s so special to see”
Care Worker

Orchestral Queen - Vichy
2026-07-25 19:00 - 20:30 (Europe/Paris) | Opéra de Vichy, 1 Rue du Casino •, Vichy, 03200
Pour l’ouverture des festivités liées à l’accueil de la ville de Bath, le Bristol Ensemble fait résonner la culture britannique avec une relecture orchestrale des plus grands succès de Queen.
Sous la direction de Roger Huckle, les trente musiciens de l’orchestre s’emparent du répertoire de Freddie Mercury pour un concert où la puissance du rock rencontre la virtuosité d’un ensemble de chambre.

Les grandes classiques de la musique anglaise - Vichy
2026-07-26 11:00 - 12:00 (Europe/Paris) | Kiosque à musique de la source de l’Hôpital, Place de la Source de l’Hôpital, Vichy, 03200 Vichy, France
Place aux chefs-d’oeuvre de la musique britannique avec ce programme qui met à l’honneur les figures emblématiques ayant forgé l’identité sonore de l’Angleterre.
L’orchestre proposera également des incursions plus contemporaines en revisitant le répertoire de groupes de rock mythiques.
Entrée libre

Les musiques de Bridgerton - Vichy
2026-07-26 15:00 - 16:00 (Europe/Paris) | Kiosque à musique de la source de l’Hôpital, Place de la Source de l’Hôpital, Vichy, 03200 Vichy, France
Les musiciens du Bristol Ensemble interprètent les arrangements cultes de la série, où les tubes de Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish ou Ariana Grande se parent de cordes classiques. Ce programme fait aussi la part belle au répertoire de Vivaldi, Bach ou Mozart qui rythme les bals et les intrigues de cette série en partie tournée dans la ville de Bath.
Entrée libre

If Opera - Carmen
2026-08-06 18:45 - 22:05 (Europe/London) | Church Farm, Wingfield, Church Farm, Wingfield, Wiltshire, BA14 9LE
Carmen Georges Bizet
Librettists Henri Meilhac, Ludovic Halévy
Conductor Oliver Gooch
Director James Hurley
Designer Laura Stanfield
Lighting Designer Joe Price
With the Bristol Ensemble
Sung in French with English surtitles
Church Farm, Wingfield
Bizet’s Carmen takes centre stage in this bold, immersive production. Reimagined for the turn of the twentieth century and infused with the playful spirit of French opéra-comique, this production reveals original, rarely heard music alongside the opera’s most thrilling and instantly recognisable arias, from the seductive Habanera to the electrifying Seguidilla and the blazing Toreador chorus.
From its scandalous 1875 premiere to its enduring status as one of the world’s most loved operas, Carmen burns with passion, jealousy and Spanish fire, offering a vivid portrait of Bizet’s fiercely independent anti-heroine. We are delighted to welcome back Alyona Abramova in this title role, following her acclaimed performance as Maddalena in Rigoletto (2025), bringing depth, magnetism and vocal brilliance to this unforgettable character.

If Opera - The Chocolate Soldier
2026-08-11 19:00 - 21:45 (Europe/London) | Church Farm, Wingfield, Church Farm, Wingfield, Wiltshire, BA14 9LE
The Chocolate Soldier Oscar Strauss
Conductor James Ham
Director Jeff Clarke
Set Designer Elroy Ashmore
Lighting Designer Joe Price
Original Lighting Design Callum Macdonald
New English book and lyrics Jeff Clarke based on George Bernard Shaw’s Arms and the Man
New orchestral arrangement James Widden
With the Bristol Ensemble
Sung in English with surtitles
If Opera’s sparkling comedy this year is Viennese to its core – not Johann – but Oscar Straus, and his hilarious operetta The Chocolate Soldier.
Oscar Straus’s 1908 opéra bouffe is closely based on George Bernard Shaw’s classic anti-war play Arms and the Man. Shaw was very opposed to his play being turned into a piece of musical theatre, and refused to have anything to do with it. The Chocolate Soldier soon became a worldwide success, earning far more in royalties than Shaw’s celebrated play ever did.
Shaw’s work is now out of copyright, and Jeff Clarke has created a new version of the show, restoring much of Shaw’s witty dialogue, and re-instating his original characters.

Preludes Music
2026-09-01
Preludes Music, the education arm of the Bristol Ensemble, continues its work in areas of Bristol that are experiencing high levels of economic disadvantage and aims to put music at the heart of every child’s education. By doing so we improve confidence, co-ordination, speech and language and benefit all other areas of their learning.
Preludes Music has been running successfully since 2009 in several schools areas of Bristol. It is the most extensive project of its type in the country and grew from discussions between Roger Huckle of the Bristol Ensemble, Professor Leslie Bunt of the University of the West of England and James Wetz a former Head Teacher.
Find out more at www.bristolensemble.com/preludes

The Music of the Beatles by candlelight
2026-09-04 19:30 - 21:20 (Europe/London) | Riverfront Theatre, Kingsway, Newport, NP20 1HG
Experience the iconic melodies of The Beatles like never before in the Bristol Ensemble’s stunning orchestral concert.
Immerse yourself in some of the legendary group’s greatest hits performed by live orchestra, including Yesterday, All you need is love, Hard day’s night, I want to hold your hand… and many more.
An unforgettable evening of nostalgia, warmth, and musical brilliance!

Preludes Music
2026-10-01, 2026-11-02
Preludes Music, the education arm of the Bristol Ensemble, continues its work in areas of Bristol that are experiencing high levels of economic disadvantage and aims to put music at the heart of every child’s education. By doing so we improve confidence, co-ordination, speech and language and benefit all other areas of their learning.
Preludes Music has been running successfully since 2009 in several schools areas of Bristol. It is the most extensive project of its type in the country and grew from discussions between Roger Huckle of the Bristol Ensemble, Professor Leslie Bunt of the University of the West of England and James Wetz, a former Head Teacher.
Find out more at www.bristolensemble.com/preludes

Somerset International Festival of the Arts: The Virtuoso Piano
2026-10-02 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St Andrew’s Church, Backwell, Church Ln, Backwell, Bristol, BS48 3JJ, United Kingdom
The 2026 Somerset International Festival of the Arts opening night features Bristol Ensemble and acclaimed soloist Viv McLean for a candlelit celebration of some of the most expressive and enduring works in the classical repertoire, featuring piano concertos by Chopin and Mozart – composers whose distinctive voices shaped the course of Western music.
The programme will feature Mozart’s Overture to The Marriage of Figaro, a brilliant and energetic introduction to his comic opera, Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, often praised for its lyrical beauty and elegant orchestration. Completing the programme is Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major, known for its elegance and emotional depth.
*The ticket price includes a free drink and entry to the SIFA Art Exhibition*
Viv McLean – Pianist
Described by Le Monde as “possessing the genius one finds in those that know how to forget themselves”, since winning First Prize at the Maria Canals International Piano Competition in Barcelona, British pianist Viv McLean has performed in all the major venues in the UK, as well as throughout Europe, Japan, Australia and the USA. He has performed concertos with orchestras such as the RPO, Philharmonia Orchestra, LPO, ECO, Halle Orchestra, BBC Concert Orchestra, Orchestra of the Swan, Northern Chamber Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra under the baton of such conductors as Daniel Harding, John Wilson, Wayne Marshall, John Lubbock, Philip Hesketh, Christopher Warren-Green, Owain Arwell Hughes, Carl Davis, Rebecca Miller, Chloe Van Soeterstede and Marvin Hamlisch.
Viv often collaborates with groups such as the Leopold String Trio, Ensemble 360, the Ysaye Quartet, the Sacconi String Quartet, as well as with artists such as Natalie Clein, Alice Neary, Daniel Hope, Lawrence Power, David Le Page, Adrian Brendel and Mary Bevan. Viv has appeared at many festivals including the International Beethoven Festival in Bonn, the Festival des Saintes in France, Vinterfestspill i Bergstaden in Norway and the Cheltenham International Festival in the UK. Viv made his BBC Radio 3 recital debut through the BBC Radio 3 Young Artists Forum scheme and has also recorded for Classic FM, WDR Radio in Germany, Radio France, ABC Radio in Australia, NRK Radio in Norway and for the Sky Arts television channel. He has recorded for labels such as Sony, Chandos, Naxos, Nimbus, Signum Classics, Lyrita, Stone Records, RPO Records, Willowhayne Records and ICSM Records.

Somerset International Festival of the Arts: Music for Miniatures
2026-10-03 10:30 - 11:30 (Europe/London) | St Andrew’s Church, Backwell, Church Ln, Backwell, Bristol, BS48 3JJ, United Kingdom
Embark on a fantastic musical journey exploring the world of birds… big birds, small birds, birds that come out at night, or when it’s raining, and then we all do a ritual dance to call the mysterious Tico Tico bird…
Flautist and singer Emily Andrews, and guitarist Francisco Correa, will perform a wonderfully imaginative programme to include flute, piccolo, panpipes, didgeridoo, voice and guitar for a unique concert with lots of interaction, movement and fun as well as some beautiful listening.
This interactive classical concert is perfect for ages 3-10. Perfect for young children and their grown-ups!

Somerset International Festival of the Arts: Brass Spectacular
2026-10-03 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St Andrew’s Church, Backwell, Church Ln, Backwell, Bristol, BS48 3JJ, United Kingdom
SIFA Brass Ensemble presents brilliant brass, breathtaking playing and music you’ll know and love – this is a concert guaranteed to put a smile on your face. The SIFA Brass Ensemble consists of some of the finest brass players from across the U.K., with ten outstanding brass players unleashing the full power, colour and sparkle of their instruments in a thrilling programme that travels from the fiery passion of Carmen and the infectious energy of Tico Tico, to the unforgettable anthems of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody.
Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or simply looking for a fantastic night out, this promises to be one of the festival’s most exhilarating events. Expect dazzling virtuosity, familiar melodies, plenty of humour and an atmosphere that’s uplifting, relaxed and great fun. Bring the whole family and discover just how exciting live brass music can be!
*The ticket price includes a free drink and entry to the SIFA Art Exhibition*

Somerset International Festival of the Arts: Chamber Treasures
2026-10-04 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St Andrew’s Church, Backwell, Church Ln, Backwell, Bristol, BS48 3JJ, United Kingdom
The Somerset International Festival of the Arts is brought to a memorable close with an evening of sublime chamber music in the enchanting candlelit surroundings of St Andrew’s Church, Backwell. Using the newly-acquired grand piano for St Andrew’s Church, two of the greatest masterpieces for piano quartet take centre stage as the rich lyricism of Fauré meets the sweeping passion of Brahms in music of extraordinary beauty, warmth and intensity.
Performed by outstanding international musicians in one of Somerset’s most atmospheric venues, this intimate concert is the perfect finale to the festival. Whether you’re a devoted classical music lover or simply looking for a magical evening by candlelight, expect music that stirs the soul and leaves a lasting impression.
Programme:
Fauré – Piano Quartet No.1 in C minor, Op.15
Paul Israel – piano
Simon Kodurand – violin
Carl Hill – viola
Harriet Wiltshire – cello
Brahms – Piano Quartet No.1 in G minor, Op.25
Paul Israel – piano
Liv-Marie Kodurand – violin
Carl Hill – viola
Harriet Wiltshire – cello
*The ticket price includes a free drink and entry to the SIFA Art Exhibition*

Henleaze Concert Society: Peer Gynt
2026-10-10 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Henrik Ibsen / Edvard Grieg Peer Gynt
John Telfer narrator
Composed as incidental music for Henrik Ibsen’s play, Edvard Grieg’s Peer Gynt was first performed in 1876 in Christiania (now Oslo). Grieg later drew two orchestral suites from the score, whose vivid and memorable movements have become some of the most recognisable in classical music.
In this concert, Ibsen’s tale is brought to life through narration by John Telfer alongside a performance of Grieg’s colourful score by the professional musicians of the Bristol Ensemble.
Pre-concert talk with Steve Clarke begins at 6.45pm. Doors open at 6.15pm for the talk and at 7.15pm for the concert only. If coming to the concert only, we should be grateful if you would try to avoid arriving during the talk.

Individual concert prices
Tickets for Henleaze Concert Society members £18.50
Tickets for non members £22
Under 25 year olds £5
The ticket price includes the pre concert talk, a programme and interval drink.
How to book
Book tickets online
You can also book by sending a cheque payable to Henleaze Concert Society, covering note and SAE to 2 Saville Mews, Kingsdown Parade, Bristol BS6 5UL
Tickets are available on the door from 6.15pm.
Season Tickets and Annual Society Membership
Season tickets are only £105 including Society Membership and admission to all six concerts from September to July. Alternatively, becoming a member of Henleaze Concert Society for £15 entitles you to book tickets for individual concerts at the members’ discounted rate. Season tickets and membership are available to buy by post by returning the Ticket Order Form with your payment and a stamped addressed envelope.

Gloria!
2026-10-14 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble
Fitzhardinge Consort
Jonathan James conductor
Harriet Wiltshire cello
Haydn Cello Concerto No.1 in C
Finzi Magnificat
Poulenc Gloria
Performed by Bristol Ensemble and Fitzhardinge Consort, Gloria! is an evening of uplifting orchestral and choral music, bringing together a programme of celebratory works from across the classical repertoire.
At the heart of the evening is Poulenc’s Gloria, one of the defining choral works of the twentieth century. Written in 1960, Poulenc’s setting of the ancient Latin text is rich in colour and moves effortlessly between joyful celebration and quiet reflection.
The programme will also include Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C, a remarkable work thought to have been lost for almost 200 years before its rediscovery in Prague in 1961. It is now recognised as one of the great concertos for the instrument, celebrated for its warmth, charm and lyricism. Bristol Ensemble’s Principal Cellist, Harriet Wiltshire, will take centre stage as soloist in this much-loved masterpiece.
Tickets from £13.08 to £34.88 (including booking fees), available from St George’s Bristol box office online, by phone on 0117 929 4929, and over the counter at St George’s.

Nailsworth Chamber Recital
2026-10-18 15:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Professional musicians from the Bristol Ensemble perform a delightful programme of chamber music. Tea and cake served at 4pm.
Tickets £15 (£13 low incomes, £5 under 18s) available online or on the door.
