The Lark Ascending
2025-02-27 19:30 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | St Mary’s Church, Kingston Deverill, Warminster, BA12 7HE
Anon The Lark in the Clear Air
Ralph Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending
Schubert arr Drakett Hark, Hark the Lark
Haydn First movement of String Quartet in D major ‘The Lark’, Op. 64 No. 5
Samuel Barber Adagio for Strings
Samuel Barber Dover Beach
Manson Greensleeves
Peter Warlock Capriol Suite
Bristol Ensemble
William Drakett baritone
Join the Bristol Ensemble and special guest William Drakett (member of the Vicar Choral in the choir of Wells Cathedral) in the beautiful church of St Mary the Virgin in Kingston Deverill to enjoy a candlelit evening of English pastoralism and American lyricism.
From the lyrical elegance of The Lark in the Clear Air to the soaring melodies of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, this programme promises to transport you to new heights. Experience Schubert’s delightful Hark, Hark the Lark and the lively first movement of Haydn’s Lark Quartet, all highlighting the charm and grace of the lark.
We’ll also delve into the profound depths of Barber’s Adagio for Strings and the evocative Dover Beach, which will leave you spellbound. Rounding out the evening is Warlock’s vibrant Capriol Suite, a joyful celebration of dance and melody. Don’t miss this chance to experience a rich tapestry of sound that will resonate in your heart long after the final note!
Ticket price includes a glass of wine and nibbles.
Proudly presented by St Mary’s and Breathe Music.

Preludes Music
2025-03-04 08:00 - 15:00, 2025-04-01 08:00 - 15:00, 2025-05-06 08:00 - 15:00
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

Henleaze Concert Society: Beethoven 4
2025-03-08 19:30 - 21:30 | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Beethoven Piano Concerto No.4; Symphony No.4
Viv Mclean piano
Both the Piano Concerto No. 4 and the Fourth Symphony were composed in 1806 and received their public premieres in 1808. The Piano Concerto is the most frequently performed of all Beethoven’s concertos, and the Fourth Symphony, the least performed of all his symphonies, despite being considered a masterpiece by many leading musicologists. When Beethoven’s younger contemporary Hector Berlioz heard the symphony he wrote that the slow movement was the work of the Archangel Michael, and not that of a human.
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.
Individual concert prices
Tickets for Henleaze Concert Society members £15
Tickets for non members £18
Under 25 year olds £5
The ticket price includes 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 £85 including Society Membership and admission to all six concerts from September to July. Alternatively, becoming a member of Henleaze Concert Society for £12 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 - Beethoven Piano Concerto No.4
2025-03-09 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Beethoven Piano Concerto No.4 arr. Lachner
Arvo Pärt Fratres
Viv McLean piano
Beethoven’s lyrical Fourth Piano Concerto, a hugely innovative work, was premiered by Beethoven himself in 1808. Packed with poetry, drama, tenderness and rhythmic drive, the concerto is completely absorbing and this intimate chamber performance promises to be one that will stay in the memory. It is paired with Arvo Pärt’s hypnotic work, Fratres. Tea and cakes served at 4pm.
“Extraordinary originality, superb simplicity… he plays with the genius one finds in those who know how to forget themselves” Le Monde, Paris review of Viv McLean
Tickets £15 (£13 for those on low incomes), available online from Eventbrite or on the door. Under 18s free of charge.

An Evening of Arvo Pärt
2025-03-14 18:00 - 19:00, 2025-03-14 20:00 - 21:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Arvo Pärt
Tabula Rasa
Spiegel im Spiegel
Fratres
Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Britten
To celebrate the 90th birthday of Estonian master-composer Arvo Pärt, join the Bristol Ensemble for an extraordinary evening of some of his best-known pieces in the intimate candlelit atmosphere of St George’s Bristol.
Pärt is one of the most prominent composers of modern times and his music is both profoundly human and otherworldly, steeped in deep emotion yet emanating from an almost meditative stillness. In this concert his legacy is honoured with performances of five of his most iconic works which capture the dramatic beauty and transcendental simplicity of his visionary approach. Projected visuals will make this deeply moving, contemplative and enriching concert even more engaging.

Stroud Choral Society: Handel's Samson
2025-03-15 19:00 - 21:30 | Cirencester Parish Church
Conductor Simon Bell leads Stroud Choral Society and Bristol Ensemble in a performance of Handel’s oratorio, Samson, featuring six soloists. Considered to be one of Handel’s finest dramatic works, and was more popular than Messiah.
Doors open at 6.30pm, concert from 7pm to 9.30pm

Vivaldi's Four Seasons by Candlelight
2025-03-20 19:30 - 21:30 | The Subscription Rooms, George Street, Stroud, GL5 1AE, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble
Roger Huckle director / solo violin
Antonio Vivaldi The Four Seasons
Ludovico Einaudi Primavera, Divenire, Petricor, I Giorni
Astor Piazzolla Summer
The wonderful nature-inspired music of Vivaldi and Einaudi come together in this stunning spring concert.
Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons is one of the   best loved pieces of classical music, capturing the character of the Italian countryside through a year as the landscape and nature changes with the seasons. As the first example of programme music, we introduce the story of the Four Seasons in a  humorous and revealing way.
The natural world is also beautifully depicted by the works of Ludovico Einaudi as he takes us through Spring, the evocative Petricor – smell of rain and I Giorni – ‘In the Days, Our Life’.
Astor Piazzolla’s pulsating tango Summer concludes a fascinating emotional and uplifting programme of music.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons by Candlelight
2025-03-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1DZ, United Kingdom
Antonio Vivaldi The Four Seasons
Ludovico Einaudi Primavera, Divenire, Petricor, I Giorni
Astor Piazzolla Summer
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons is one of the best-loved pieces of classical music, capturing the Italian countryside through the changing seasons. The natural world is also beautifully depicted in the works of Ludovico Einaudi. Astor Piazzolla’s pulsating tango Summer concludes a fascinating emotional and uplifting programme of music.
Tickets £27 (£22 under 18s and students), includes £2 booking fee, available from Wiltshire Music Centre box office on 01225 860 100 or online at www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

Bristol Bach Choir: Nelson Mass and Magnificat
2025-03-22 19:30 - 21:30 | St Peter’s Church, 17 The Dr, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4LD
Bristol Bach Choir presents two exciting, colourful and melodic classical works with the Bristol Ensemble and soloists Sophie Kirk-Harris, Rebecca Chellappah, Kieran White, and Edmund Danon.
Haydn’s Missa in angustiis (Mass for Troubled Times) is more commonly known as Nelson Mass, and is one of his most popular choral works. The setting is by turns dramatic and contemplative, full of the composer’s trademark melodies and surprises. C.P.E. Bach’s Magnificat might be less well known but is certainly no less enjoyable. The text is broken into a number of sections enabling the composer to make full use of the soloists, chorus, and all the available combinations to create a wonderful vibrant setting of the Song of Mary.

Bath Choral Society: Brahms and Poulenc
2025-03-22 19:30 - 21:30 | Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, United Kingdom
Bath Choral Society
Bristol Ensemble
Stephanie Bodsworth soprano
Felix Kemp baritone
Katrine Reimers conductor
Brahms Ein Deutsches Requiem
Poulenc Gloria
The text of Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem is drawn from the Lutheran Bible and the seven movements are a celebration of life and salvation. The fourth movement drawn from the Psalms is often performed in English as the anthem ‘How lovely are thy dwellings fair’. Bath Choral Society will perform the full orchestral version in German.
By contrast Poulenc’s Gloria, written in 1959, sets the text of the Gloria from the Latin Mass. The six movements vary in style and mood and feature a dramatic Soprano solo for the ‘Domine Deus’.
Seating:
North and South side walls unreserved (£7)
Corporation Stalls unreserved (£5)
All other seats reserved
Doors open from 6.45pm
Tickets available from Bath Box Office online here: bathboxoffice.org.uk/whats-on/brahms-requiem-poulenc-gloria or call 01225 463 362

Voices for Life: Stardust
2025-03-26 18:30 - 19:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Stardust is back! Join 120 children from South Gloucestershire primary schools and the Voices for Life Bath Children’s Choir on their musical journey through space.
Written by Jools Scott and Sue Curtis, Stardust was commissioned by Voices for Life. Through a series of school workshops and rehearsals, the children have experienced a magical journey visiting different feeling planets on their mission to Planet Zarg.
The children’s performance will be conducted by George Bevan, accompanied by Bristol Ensemble, and narrated by John Telfer from The Archers.
It is suitable for any age!
Voices for Life envisions a world where every child has the chance to create music, enhancing wellbeing and fostering vibrant communities. By harnessing the power of music, creativity, and performance, we empower children on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards future Voices for Life projects, bringing more musical opportunities to primary school children and inspiring them to be happy and confident through music.

The Lark Ascending
2025-03-26 19:30 - 21:30 | St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hele Lane, South Petherton, TA13 5DQ
Anon The Lark in the Clear Air
Ralph Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending
Schubert arr Drakett Hark, Hark the Lark
Haydn First movement of String Quartet in D major ‘The Lark’, Op. 64 No. 5
Samuel Barber Adagio for Strings
Samuel Barber Dover Beach
Manson Greensleeves
Peter Warlock Capriol Suite
Bristol Ensemble
William Drakett baritone
Come and join us in the beautiful St Peter & St Paul’s church in South Petherton, to enjoy a wonderful candlelit evening of English pastoralism and American lyricism. Principals from Bristol Ensemble plus special guest William Drakett (member of the Vicar Choral in the choir of Wells Cathedral), will delight you with this glorious programme.
From the lyrical elegance of Lark in the Clear Air to the soaring melodies of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, this program promises to transport you to new heights. Experience Schubert’s delightful Hark, Hark the Lark and the lively first movement of Haydn’s Lark Quartet, all highlighting the charm and grace of the lark.
We’ll also delve into the profound depths of Barber’s Adagio for Strings and the evocative Dover Beach, which will leave you spellbound. Rounding out the evening is Warlock’s vibrant Capriol Suite, a joyful celebration of dance and melody. Don’t miss this chance to experience a rich tapestry of sound that will resonate in your heart long after the final note!
Tickets begin at £10 for students, £25 for a standard seat and £30 for an ‘up close’ experience of the musicians. Children under 12 can attend for free and are extremely welcome. Ticket includes a glass of wine in the interval. There will be a paid bar available before the concert. Doors open at 6.45 pm.
Proudly presented by the Benefice of South Petherton and Breathe Music.
With thanks to sponsors The Bloom Wine Company and A&J Winter Family Butchers.
Please let the organisers know if you have special access requirements, a guide dog or if you will be accompanied by a carer.

BE Contemporary: Meredith & Messiaen
2025-03-27 19:00 - 20:00 | 1904 Arts Club, The Red Lodge, Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LJ, United Kingdom
Olivier Messiaen Quartet for the End of Time (1940)
Anna Meredith Hex (2001-3)
Bristol Ensemble performs an intriguing programme of contemporary works in the unique setting of Bristol 1904 Arts Club. Tickets £20, available online at Eventbrite.
60 minutes, no interval.
With the friendly support of

Bridgerton In Concert
2025-03-28 19:30 - 22:00 | St Mary Magdalene Church, Ditcheat, BA4 6QX, United Kingdom
The Bristol Ensemble presents a captivating concert of music featured in the Netflix hit series Bridgerton in the charming St Mary Magdalene’s Church, lit by 300 real candles to create the most immersive experience.
The Bristol Ensemble, Bristol’s own professional ensemble, will perform some of the most enduring music from the series, including:

Bridgerton Theme (Kris Bowers)

Marriage of Figaro Overture (Mozart)

ABCDEFU (Gayle)

Sign of the Times (Harry Styles)

Thank U, Next (Ariana Grande)

What About Us (Pink)

Arrival of the Queen of Sheba (Handel)

Wrecking Ball (Miley Cirus)

Dancing on my Own (Robyn)

Material Girl (Madonna)

Yellow (Coldplay)

Halo (Beyonce)

Wildest Dreams (Taylor Swift)

Music through the ages
2025-03-29 19:00 - 21:00 | St Martin’s Church, Church Road, Worle, BS22 9EL
Celebrating the 900th anniversary of St Martin’s Church in Worle, join the Bristol Ensemble for a musical tour through the ages, performing works by composers from across the centuries, beginning with Hildegard of Bingen. This fascinating development of music over 9 centuries will include music by Purcell, Vivaldi, Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Holst, Elgar, Vaughan Williams and Max Richter.
Tickets £15 plus booking fees, available online from Eventbrite.

Bristol Choral Society: Dixit Dominus
2025-03-29 19:30 - 21:30 | Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TJ, United Kingdom
Handel Dixit Dominus
Scarlatti Dixit Dominus
Monteverdi Beatus Vir
Bristol Choral Society
Bristol Ensemble
Liam Dunachie organ
Katie Trethewey soprano
Gwen Martin soprano
Nancy Cole alto
Thomas Lowen bass
Hilary Campbell conductor
Enjoy two settings of Psalm 110 Dixit Dominus, both from early 18th century Rome.The choir and soloists will also perform Beatus Vir by the great Italian Renaissance composer Claudio Monteverdi.

Bristol Phoenix Choir: Bach's St John Passion
2025-04-05 19:30 - 21:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
‘Bach is the supreme genius of all music’ (Pablo Casals). The St John Passion runs through the whole spectrum of human emotion as it not only captures all the drama and tragedy of the Passion story, but also offers reflection and contemplation as the story unfolds.
Join Bristol Phoenix Choir as they return to St George’s for a seasonally appropriate performance, partnered by a superb team of soloists, as well as the specialist Baroque arm of the Bristol Ensemble. A powerful and moving evening of wonderful music, filled with drama and meditation, in the special setting of St George’s Bristol.

The Secret Life of Vivaldi
2025-04-12 19:30 - 21:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Discover the extraordinary story of the remarkable rise of Antonio Vivaldi – from baker’s son to “Europe’s greatest composer” – in the world premiere of a unique event combining live orchestra, choir and starring acclaimed actor Miltos Yerolemou (Game of Thrones, Star Wars) as Vivaldi.
What was the truth about the mysterious life of Vivaldi? What was the scandal involving Vivaldi and the beautiful prima donna, Anna Giro? Why was Vivaldi banned from Ferrara by the Archbishop of the city? Why did the Patrician families of 18th century Venice regard Vivaldi with so much suspicion and contempt? What made “Europe’s greatest composer” die in poverty, a broken man, far away from his home in Venice?
“Miltos Yerolemou is a fantastic actor – he brings Vivaldi to life! I think people will be fascinated by the trials and tribulation of Vivaldi’s life and his character.” Roger Huckle, Music Director of Bristol Ensemble
Featuring many rarely-performed works, including stunning excerpts from his choral masterpieces – Nisi Dominus, Credo, Stabat Mater, Juditha Triumphans, and operas like Orlando, Arsilda, Otone in Villa and Dorilla in Tempe, plus breathtaking music from his opuses such as La Stravaganza and La Cetra – and tantalising highlights from the most popular music in the world, Le Quattro Stagioni.
Join the Bristol Ensemble, Fitzhardinge Consort and Miltos Yerolemou for an evening of Vivaldi’s spine-tingling music, combined with astounding revelations about his life on the occasion of the 300th anniversary of the publication of The Four Seasons.

We are very grateful to Paragon Music Trust for the financial support that they have given us for this event. Do take a moment to visit their website (via the QR code) to read how you might help the Trust to support more music-making in the area.

MiniBeats - Super Strings!
2025-04-13 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-04-13 12:30 - 13:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Join Presenter Laura Tanner and our fantastic MiniBeats string players (2 violins, viola and cello) for a fun and interactive introduction to the sensational sound of string instruments! After the show, you are invited to get creative over in the Glass Studio.
St George’s MiniBeats in association with the Bristol Ensemble
Tickets: £9 (children & adults); 4-for-3 family ticket available
10.30am show Concert most suitable for under 5s
12.30pm show Concert most suitable for 4 – 8 year olds
Ages are guidelines only; both concerts are relaxed performances where everyone is welcome!
MiniMakers crafting sessions
Times: after each MiniBeats show
FREE to MiniBeats ticket holders!

Nailsworth: Quartet for the End of Time
2025-04-13 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Olivier Messiaen Quartet for the End of Time
In a change to the previously-advertised programme, Bristol Ensemble performs Olivier Messiaen’s hauntingly beautiful 8-movement work Quartet for the End of Time. Considered to be one of his most important works, Messiaen wrote the piece whilst held as a prisoner of war in German captivity, and it was first performed by his fellow prisoners.
Tea and cakes served at 4pm.
Tickets £15 (£13 for those on low incomes), available online from Eventbrite or on the door. Under 18s free of charge.

Preludes Music school concerts
2025-05-06 | Weston-super-Mare, Weston-super-Mare
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.

The Lark Ascending and Pastoral Themes
2025-05-09 19:30 - 22:00 | St John’s Church, Church Street, Frome, BA11 1PL
Bristol Ensemble
William Drakett baritone
Come and join us in the beautiful St John’s church in Frome, to enjoy a wonderful candlelit evening of English pastoralism and American lyricism. Principals from The Bristol Ensemble, plus special guest William Drakett (member of the Vicar Choral in the choir of Wells Cathedral), will delight you with this glorious programme.
From the lyrical elegance of Lark in the Clear Air to the soaring melodies of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, this program promises to transport you to new heights. Experience Schubert’s delightful Hark, Hark the Lark and the lively first movement of Haydn’s Lark Quartet, all highlighting the charm and grace of the lark.
We’ll also delve into the profound depths of Barber’s Adagio for Strings and the evocative Dover Beach, which will leave you spellbound. Rounding out the evening is Warlock’s vibrant Capriol Suite, a joyful celebration of dance and melody.

Music for Miniatures
2025-05-10 10:30 - 11:15 | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
A string trio from Bristol Ensemble performs a variety of music for you and your little one.

Henleaze Concert Society: Blown Away
2025-05-10 19:30 - 21:30 | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Richard Strauss Suite for 13 Wind Instruments in B flat major, Op. 4
Beethoven Octet in E flat major Op.103
The Bristol Ensemble’s wind return to perform two chamber music masterpieces. Richard Strauss had just turned 17 when he composed his Suite for 13 Wind Instruments in 1881. The music itself is melodic and lyrical, revelling in the rich, full sound of the ensemble. Beethoven’s Octet is another youthful work, a tuneful and sunny summation of the charm and colour of classical wind chamber music.
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.
Individual concert prices
Tickets for Henleaze Concert Society members £15
Tickets for non members £18
Under 25 year olds £5
The ticket price includes 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 £85 including Society Membership and admission to all six concerts from September to July. Alternatively, becoming a member of Henleaze Concert Society for £12 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.

Mozart by Candlelight
2025-05-10 19:30 - 21:30 | St Andrew’s Church, Chew Magna, Chew Magna, BS40 8SF, United Kingdom
Ganz Kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart’s newly rediscovered work)
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik in G, K.525
Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K.622 (arr. Berg)
Excerpts from The Marriage of Figaro
Divertimento in F major K.138
The Bristol Ensemble’s highly entertaining Mozart by Candlelight concert takes you on a journey through some of Mozart’s best loved works with interesting and amusing anecdotes offering an insight into the mind of this genius composer.
Principals of the Bristol Ensemble strings and Clarinet will give you a thrilling evening of original works and arrangements drawing you into the world of Mozart in 1700s Salzburg and Vienna.
We will also be performing a newly discovered work by Mozart – Ganz Kleine Nachtmusik, which was only recently attributed to the young Mozart aged 11 and had its first public performance in Salzburg in September.

Nailsworth: Strauss and Beethoven
2025-05-11 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Richard Strauss Suite for 13 Wind Instruments in B flat major, Op. 4
Beethoven Octet in E flat major Op.103
The Bristol Ensemble’s wind players perform two chamber music masterpieces. Richard Strauss had just turned 17 when he composed his Suite For 13 Wind Instruments in 1881. The music itself is melodic and lyrical, revelling in the rich, full sound of the ensemble. Beethoven’s Octet is another youthful work, a tuneful and sunny summation of the charm and colour of classical wind chamber music.
Tea and cakes served at 4pm.
Tickets £15 (£13 for those on low incomes), available on the door and online at www.eventbrite.com. Under 18s free of charge.
