Bristol Ensemble

Bristol Choral Society: Dixit Dominus
2025-03-29 19:30 - 21:30 (Europe/London) | 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.

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.

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)

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

An Evening of Arvo Pärt
2025-03-14 18:00 - 19:00 | 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.

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.

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.

The Lark Ascending
2025-02-27 19:30 - 22:00 | 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.

MiniBeats - Playful Percussion!
2025-02-23 12:30 - 13:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Join Presenter Laura Tanner, our fantastic MiniBeats percussionists and their crazy collection of instruments for a fun and interactive introduction to the infinite possibilities of percussion!
Then join Robyn for MiniMakers in the Glass Studio to get creative and let your imagination run wild!
St George’s Bristol 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
Times: 11.30am – 12.30pm; 1.30pm – 2.30pm
FREE to MiniBeats ticket holders!

Turns, Loops and Glances
2025-02-20 19:30 - 21:30 | Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, United Kingdom
Three contemporary works for string quartet, performed by the Bristol Ensemble.
Hannah Kendall Glances/I Don’t Belong Here (2019)
Errollyn Wallen Romeo Turn (1990)
John Adams Shaker Loops (1978)
60 minutes, no interval.
Hannah Kendall is a British composer based in New York. Her work bridges gaps between different musical cultures, both honouring and questioning the contemporary tradition while telling new stories through it. Glances/I Don’t Belong Here is a collection of seven miniatures inspired by the British-Guyanese artist Ingrid Pollard’s Pastoral Interludes, a series of photographs in which her Black British subjects are posed in the Lake District, the epitome of rural Britain; exploring the notion of alienation and ‘otherness’ in such spaces. In a similar way, each short piece is a musical snapshot of Kendall’s most cherished non-urban settings, and the experiences that can accompany each visit.
The ‘Renaissance woman of contemporary British music’ (The Observer), Errollyn Wallen is one of the most regularly performed living composers. The first Black woman to have a piece featured in the BBC Proms (in 1998), she was appointed Master of the Kings Music in 2024.
Described as ‘hauntingly ethereal’, American composer John Adams’ Shaker Loops (1978) began as a piece called Wavemaker in which Adams tried to emulate the ripple effect of bodies of water in his music. He retitled the piece Shaker Loops, both because of the “shaking” of the strings as they oscillate between notes and the idea Adams had of Shaker communities dancing to repetitive, energetic music.
Since its foundation in 1994, by violinist and Chief Executive Roger Huckle, the Bristol Ensemble has been at the forefront of musical life in Bristol and the Southwest. Versatility is one of Bristol Ensemble’s greatest attributes. Bristol Ensemble is a collective of specialists that collaborate to provide the highest calibre of performance for a wide range of audiences.
With the friendly support of

Nailsworth - piano trios
2025-02-16 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Smetana Piano Trio in G minor Op.15
Dvořák Romance in F minor Op.11
Martinů Piano Trio No.2 D minor H 327
Roger Huckle violin
Harriet Wiltshire cello
Paul Israel piano
The professional musicians of Bristol Ensemble perform dramatic and passionate piano trios by Czech romantic era and 20th century composers Smetana, Dvořák and Martinů. 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.

Vivaldi Four Seasons by Candlelight
2025-02-15 19:30 - 21:30 | Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Road, Southville, Bristol, BS3 1TF
Bristol Ensemble
Director / Soloist Roger Huckle
Vivaldi The Four Seasons
Einaudi  Primavera, Divenire, Petricor, I Giorni
Piazzolla  Summer
The wonderful nature-inspired music of Vivaldi and Einaudi come together in this stunning spring concert.
The Vivaldi Four Seasons is one of the  best loved pieces of classical music managing to capture 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’. Also Astor Piazzolla pulsating tango ‘Summer’ conclude a fascinating emotional and uplifting programme of music.
The Tobacco Factory Theatre will be transformed with 400 candles adorning the stage.

Slapstick Festival: Silent Comedy Gala
2025-02-14 19:30 - 22:30 | Bristol Beacon, Trenchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR, United Kingdom
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in a unique and unforgettable way by joining Bristol’s Slapstick Festival for its 20th-anniversary Silent Comedy Gala, hosted by none other than the brilliant, award-winning actor Martin Freeman.
Known and loved worldwide for his iconic roles in Sherlock, The Hobbit, The Office, and Black Panther, Martin’s razor-sharp wit, charm, and deep passion for classic comedy (especially Laurel & Hardy) make him the perfect host for this gala evening.
Enjoy the magic of watching three classic silent comedies on the big screen—exactly how they were meant to be seen—with live accompaniment from world-class musicians, including legendary keyboardist and ‘Grumpy Old Man’ star Rick Wakeman.
The highlight of the evening is Buster Keaton’s iconic Steamboat Bill Jr. (1928), filled with breathtaking stunts and timeless sight gags that cement Buster’s place amongst the all time comedy greats. The film is accompanied by the renowned five -piece European Silent Screen Virtuosi, led by maestro Günter A. Buchwald.
Rick Wakeman provides live, improvised accompaniment to Laurel & Hardy’s final silent short, the hilarious Angora Love (1929), where the comedy duo’s antics with a runaway goat cause chaos for their landlord.
For the first time, members of the Bristol Ensemble will join forces with members of the European Silent Screen Virtuosi to create a stunning 9-piece live accompaniment to Charlie Chaplin’s iconic silent film, The Immigrant (1917) Conducted by Guenter A. Buchwald and performing his score. This collaboration promises to bring a rich, dynamic accompaniment to Chaplin’s timeless masterpiece.
In addition, a cappella group The Matinee Idles, featuring members from 70s chart-toppers DARTS, along with actor Paul McGann, will perform as a reminder of their debut at the very first Silent Comedy Gala in 2005.
With Martin Freeman at the helm, this is more than a show—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of comedy, music, and classic comedy!
Ahead of the main hall events, Trip for Biscuits will be playing their ragtime takes on contemporary hits in the Beacon’s foyer from 18:00.
Please note: Guest appearances are subject to work commitments and may be subject to change.
Overall event running time: Approximately Approx Running time 3 hours, including 20min interval

ABBA by candlelight
2025-02-14 18:30 - 19:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
This Valentine’s Day, let the romance of ABBA’s unforgettable tunes set your heart dancing – because love deserves dramatic violins and epic crescendos!
In a one-of-a-kind orchestral concert blending ABBA’s iconic pop sound with lush symphonic arrangements, expect hits that’ll have you crying into your champagne one moment and dancing in the aisles the next.
Bring your partner, your BFF, or fly solo – with great music, good vibes, and all the ABBA magic you know and love, this is the perfect soundtrack to your Valentine’s night!
“Thank you for the music!”

*Sold out* Baroque Music by Candlelight at Badminton House
2025-02-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Badminton House, North Hall, Badminton Estate, Badminton, South Gloucestershire, GL9 1DD
The Bristol Ensemble presents an evening of the finest music from the baroque era, celebrating the transition from Winter to Spring and exploring nature through music. Step into the enchanting world of baroque music as the historic Badminton House becomes the setting for an unforgettable evening of timeless elegance. Illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight, the acclaimed Bristol Ensemble will transport you to the 17th and 18th centuries with a sublime program of Baroque masterpieces.
Nestled in the heart of South Gloucestershire countryside, Badminton House provides an exquisite backdrop for this intimate concert, with its grand architecture and storied heritage. Let the soaring melodies of composers like Vivaldi, Bach, and Handel fill the air, as you experience the magic of live performance in an ambience of hushed beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned lover of classical music or discovering the Baroque era for the first time, this evening promises to be a captivating celebration of music and history.
The event will be held in The North Hall of Badminton House, renowned for its exquisite plasterwork, the celebrated paintings by James Wootton, and its historical significance as the birthplace of the game of badminton.
Arrival 6.30pm. Music begins at 7pm. There will be a 30 minute refreshments interval. Performance will end at 9pm.

Einaudi Meets Vaughan Williams *sold out*
2025-02-07 19:30 - 21:30 | The Mission Theatre, 32 Corn Street, Bath, BA1 1UF, United Kingdom
Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending
Ludovico Einaudi Petricor, I Giorni
Astor Piazzolla Summer
Experience the captivating beauty of nature through the music of Einaudi and Vaughan Williams. Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending, a beloved classic, perfectly embodies the spirit of the English countryside, capturing the graceful essence of the skylark. Likewise, Einaudi’s compositions, from the refreshing and evocative Petricor (the smell of rain) to the introspective I Giorni, offer a poignant journey through nature’s moods. To complete the programme, Astor Piazzolla’s exhilarating tango, Summer, brings a lively, emotional and uplifting finale to this celebration of music and nature.
Tickets £20 available online at bathboxoffice.org.uk/whats-on/einaudi-meets-vaughan-williams

University of Bristol lunchtime concert
2025-02-07 13:15 - 14:00 | University of Bristol Victoria Rooms, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1SA, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble performs John Pickard’s Second Quartet, and Steve Reich’s Different Trains as part of the University of Bristol lunchtime concert series.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons by candlelight
2025-01-29 19:30 - 21:00 | Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon, SN1 1QN
A wonderful evening of music including Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, performed at the Wyvern Theatre stunningly lit by candles to create the most incredible immersive experience.

Voices for Life: Stardust
2025-01-29 19:00 - 20:00 | Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, United Kingdom
Stardust is back! Join 200 children from Bath and North East Somerset 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 Pete Harrison, 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.

Vivaldi Four Seasons by candlelight
2025-01-24 19:30 - 21:30 | Norton-sub-Hamdon Village Hall, New Road, Norton-sub-Hamdon, TA14 6SF
Join the Bristol Ensemble in Norton Sub Hamdon Village Hall to enjoy a wonderful evening of classical music. Principals from the Bristol Ensemble, Bristol’s own professional ensemble, will perform music themed by the seasons, culminating in a in full performance of the magnificent ‘Four Seasons’ by Vivaldi.
A bar and refreshments will be available during the interval.
Please let the organisers know if you have special access requirements, a guide dog or if you will be accompanied by a carer.
Adult tickets are £25, with student tickets at £10. Children aged 12 and under can attend for free and are extremely welcome. Tickets available online from Breathe Music.

Nailsworth - contemporary chamber works
2025-01-19 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
John Tavener Protecting the Veil
Sally Beamish String Quartet no. 2: Opus California
The professional musicians of Bristol Ensemble perform John Tavener’s hypnotic and mesmerising work The Protecting Veil, scored for solo cello and string ensemble, together with Sally Beamish’s String Quartet No 2, inspired by her experience of playing Beethoven’s Opus 18 quartet as a teenager. Each movement of her work takes a fragment of the Beethoven quartet and develops it, using aspects of jazz and contemporary American style, creating a fascinating work that mixes the classical and contemporary eras. 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.

Henleaze Concert Society: Cosmic Cello Power
2025-01-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Tchaikovsky Serenade for String Orchestra Op.48
Tavener The Protecting Veil
Sally Beamish String Quartet No.2 Opus California (1999)
Harriet Wiltshire cello
John Tavener described the solo cello in The Protecting Veil as “capturing some of the almost cosmic power of the Mother of God. The cello represents The Mother of God and never stops singing throughout. One can think of the strings as a gigantic extension of her unending song”. Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings is full of joy and passion, captivating the listener as it weaves together a waltz, an expansive elegy, and Russian folksong.
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.
With the friendly support of

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.

Handel's Messiah by candlelight
2024-12-23 19:00 - 22:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Choir of Royal Holloway
Bristol Ensemble
Rupert Gough conductor
Bristol Ensemble and the Choir of Royal Holloway return to St George’s Bristol in another collaboration as they bring to life Handel’s masterpiece, Messiah, in a semi-staged performance.
Talented young soloists drawn from the choir will perform the work’s arias from positions around the hall, bringing a freshness and vitality to this astonishing and compelling work.
Tickets £15 / £20 / £26 / £30 plus St George’s 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.
