Bristol Ensemble

SYMPHONY OF THE WORLD
2024-11-18 15:30 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Trinity Arts Centre, Trinity Centre, Trinity Road, St Jude's, Bristol, BS2 0NW, United Kingdom
A true creative experiment bringing together children from 3 local schools, a community poetry group, professional musicians from a variety of backgrounds and tutors from Preludes Music to produce a piece of music with 4 movements, each one written by each group of participants from the local community.
Symphony of the World takes you on a musical journey across the globe, a celebration of the wonderful diverse communities and musical traditions residing in our city of Bristol, culminating in two electrifying performances at Trinity Arts on 18th November 2024, and St George’s on 25th November 2024.
Featuring: Bristol Reggae Orchestra, Mamadou Cissokho with Suntou Susso, Troyka, Malizah, Preludes Music, Bristol Ensemble and composer/conductor William Goodchild.
And schools: Easton CE Academy, Redfield Educate Together, St Nicholas of Tolentine RC.
The programme will also feature a special performance of the ‘Kora Concerto For Orchestra’ composed by William Goodchild and Mamadou Cissokho.
Come and celebrate musical diversity and the joy of collaborative music making with us. Follow #SymphonyOfTheWorld and let’s see what happens!
Kindly supported by Arts Council England, Quartet Community Foundation & Bristol Masons Charity

Philip Glass - Company
2024-11-21 19:30 - 20:30 | 1904 Arts Club, The Red Lodge, Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LJ, United Kingdom
John Pickard String Quartet No. 2
Sadie Harrison Aurea Luce
Carmen Ho The Way It Is
Carmen Ho Unknown (piano solo)
Thomas Ades O Albion
Philip Glass Company
John Cage 4’33”
Bristol Ensemble performs an intriguing programme of contemporary works in the unique setting of Bristol 1904 Arts Club.
Philip Glass’ String Quartet No.2 ‘ Company’ was commissioned by the Mabou Mines Foundation for the dramatisation of Samuel Beckett’s prose poem Company.
John Pickard’s String Quartet No.2 was first performed by the Allegri Quartet in the extraordinary Italianate village of Portmeirion in North Wales. It is a warm and lyrical work, which starts quietly and builds momentum, culminating in an energetic and optimistic conclusion.
4′33″ premiered in 1952 and was met with shock and widespread controversy; many musicologists revisited the very definition of music and questioned whether Cage’s work qualified as such. In fact, Cage intended 4′33″ to be experimental — to test the audience’s attitude to silence and prove that any auditory experience may constitute music, seeing that absolute silence cannot exist.
Works by Sadie Harrison, Carmen Ho and Thomas Ades complete the programme.
Tickets £20, available from Eventbrite.
We are grateful to the Vaughan Williams Foundation and Francis Routh Foundation for their support.

Mozart by Candlelight
2024-11-22 19:30 - 21:30 | Blakehay Theatre, Wadham Street, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1JZ, 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 captivating Mozart by Candlelight concert invites you to experience some of the composer’s most cherished works at the historic 200-year-old Mission Theatre amidst the enchanting glow of candlelight, including Mozart’s newly rediscovered piece Ganz Kleine Nachtmusik, which received its first public performance in Salzburg in September 2024.
Featuring the principal strings and clarinet of the Bristol Ensemble and enhanced by fascinating and humorous anecdotes, the performance promises a thrilling evening of original works and arrangements that transport you to the world of 18th-century Salzburg and Vienna, offering a glimpse into the mind of this genius composer.

Massive Mozart Workshop
2024-11-23 09:00 - 19:00 | Bristol Beacon, Trenchard Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR, United Kingdom
Harriet Eyley soprano
Samantha Price mezzo soprano
Elgan Llŷr Thomas tenor
Benson Wilson bass
Bristol Ensemble
David Ogden conductor
Join us for an unforgettable musical journey as we delve into the timeless beauty of Mozart’s Requiem.
Whether you’re a seasoned chorister or shower-singing enthusiast, come and sing with a choir of 400, as we learn from scratch one of Mozart’s most powerful works. This is also your chance to perform alongside a professional orchestra, the Bristol Ensemble, as well as four fantastic soloists!
Held in the transformed concert hall of Bristol Beacon, with its amazing acoustic and glorious sound, don’t miss the chance to be part of something extraordinary.
With years of experience directing choirs and ensembles, the day will be lead by Bristol maestro David Ogden. The event will then finish with a joyful concert performance in Beacon Hall.
No prior experience of Mozart’s Requiem is needed – everyone is welcome. Just bring your enthusiasm and love of music!
Schedule
Registration 9 – 9.30am
Welcome and warm up 9.30am
Session 1 10.00am – 12.30pm
Lunch 12.30 – 1.30pm
Session 2 1.30 – 2.30pm
Dress rehearsal with orchestra 3pm – 4pm
Concert 6pm – 7pm
All timings are approximate and subject to change
Age: 14+. Please note participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
This workshop includes accessible pricing for under 18s.
Full price £45.00 incl. booking fee
Under 18s £10.00 incl. booking fee

Amici: Handel's Messiah
2024-11-23 19:00 - 22:00 | Taunton Minster, Church Square, Taunton, TA1 1SA
The Amici Choir
Bristol Ensemble
Elizabeth Watts soprano
Louise Innes alto
Eamonn Mulhall tenor
Frederick Long bass
Andrew Trewhella conductor
Rehearsals have started for Amici’s performance of Handel’s Messiah. Overall, that will be about three months of weekly group rehearsal and private learning at home. Handel wrote the whole thing, vocal lines and orchestral parts in three WEEKS! His servant reported that he was in a composing frenzy and hardly took time to eat or sleep, so intent he was on the task.
The piece was first performed in Dublin in 1742, a performance in aid of local charities – it raised £400 – that’s the 2024 equivalent of £75,000!
What is it about this work which makes it such a sure-fire success? Its music of course – it is full of well-known and memorable tunes, arias and choruses. ‘And the Glory of the Lord’, ‘For Unto Us a Child is Born’, ‘All We Like Sheep’, ‘I Know that My Redeemer Liveth’, ‘The Trumpet Shall Sound’ and of course ‘Hallellujah!’ Its message – God’s love shown in the birth and sacrifice of His Son.
The music is sublime – but the ‘forgotten man’ of ‘Messiah’ must be Charles Jennens, whose compilation of scriptural texts to form the words of the piece so inspired Handel to write his three-week tour de force.
Amici’s performance boasts a magnificent line-up of soloists. The incomparable Elizabeth Watts is the soprano and she will be ably supported by Louise Innes (Alto), Eamonn Mulhall (Tenor) and Frederick Long (Bass). The orchestral forces are the superb Bristol Ensemble who have supported many of our concerts in the past and we welcome them once more. The whole event will be conducted by Andrew Trewhella.
Tickets are available NOW, at the Minster, via the Amici website (www.amicichoir.org.uk) and from the Tourist Visitor Centre in Taunton (01823 340470). £22 gives you the best seating and view from the centre section; the standard seating is £18. Don’t delay – this is an event not to be missed.
Please note that the starting time for this concert is 7pm – doors open at 6.30pm

SYMPHONY OF THE WORLD
2024-11-25 17:00 - 19:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom

High Sheriff Concert
2024-11-26 19:30 - 21:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
The High Sheriff of Bristol’s concert features Bristol Ensemble’s Preludes Music project alongside Rising Voices Recovery Choir, Changing Tunes and the Dovetail Orchestra.
The projects – in their own words in order of appearance:
Preludes Music
Preludes Music, the education arm of the Bristol Ensemble, works 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. It has been running successfully since 2009 in several areas of Bristol. It is the most extensive project of its type in the country.
Rising Voices Recovery Choir
Rising Voices Recovery Choir is a place for people to come together, make friends and be uplifted by the power of song. We have been running since 2014 and regularly perform at recovery and public events all over Bristol. Our fun and free weekly singing group is for anyone affected by problematic drug or alcohol use – people in recovery or working towards recovery, their families and carers, and those who work or volunteer in treatment services.
Changing Tunes
We use the power of music to help people lead crime free lives that are meaningful and creative. We facilitate music-making programmes in Alternative Provision Schools, Secure Children’s Homes, Young Offender Institutions, Prisons and Post-Release.
Dovetail Orchestra
Dovetail Orchestra exists to provide a welcoming space for asylum seekers and refugees, building connections through music and supporting musical learning on a regular weekly basis. Founded in 2022, we have welcomed people from over 17 countries to come and play with us. Every week we create new pieces that bring together national styles.
All money raised will support the High Sheriff’s fund BYCA which provides food and activities for children and young people facing economic disadvantage in half term holidays and St George’s outreach programme.
Tickets £21.80 including St George’s Bristol booking fees, available from St George’s box office online, by phone on 0117 929 4929, and over the counter at St George’s.

Dark Side of the Moon
2024-11-28 19:30 - 20:40 | Christmas Spiegeltent, Waterfront Square, Off Canons Way, The Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5LL
Join us for a truly special evening as the Bristol Ensemble, the city’s only professional chamber orchestra performs Pink Floyd’s legendary album, The Dark Side of the Moon.
Performed in the enchanting setting of the Spiegeltent, this 23-piece chamber orchestra will bring the iconic album to life, highlighting its intricate musicality in a way that only a live orchestral performance can. As the fourth best-selling album in history, with over 45 million copies sold worldwide, The Dark Side of the Moon remains one of the most influential albums ever created, and this evening promises to be a joyous celebration of its lasting legacy.
Don’t miss this extraordinary concert that fuses the spirit of the 1970s with the elegance of orchestral music, performed by the talented musicians of the Bristol Ensemble.
This concert includes some bonus tracks from Wish You Were Here and some classic Einaudi and Debussy.

Malmesbury Singers: Eternal Echoes
2024-11-30 19:30 - 21:30 | Malmesbury Abbey, Malmesbury, SN16 0AA
Malmesbury Singers
Bristol Ensemble
Thomas Mottershead conductor
Brahms Ein Deutsches Requiem
Vaughan Williams Toward the Unknown Region
Join Malmesbury Singers and Bristol Singers at Malmesbury Abbey for a magical evening filled with enchanting choral music. Let your soul be lifted by the harmonious voices echoing through the ancient walls of this historic venue. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as the Malmesbury singers guide you on a musical journey through Advent.

Cantemus Chamber Choir: Messiah by candlelight
2024-11-30 19:30 - 22:30 | Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, CF5 2LA
Cantemus Chamber Choir
Bristol Ensemble
Huw Williams director
Rebecca Outram soprano
Martha McLorinan alto
David de Winter tenor
Craig Bissex bass
Join Cantemus and Bristol Ensemble for a Christmas performance of Handel’s Messiah by candlelight in the beautiful setting of Llandaff Cathedral.
Tickets are £25 for adults and £12.50 for students and under 18s, available online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/cantemus-chamber-choir. Use code CANDLE10 for an early bird discount of 10% until 1 November 2024.

Nailsworth - Piano Quartets
2024-12-01 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Mozart Piano Quartet No.1 in G minor K.478
Fauré Piano Quartet No.1 in C minor Op.15
The sublime music of both Mozart and Fauré is connected by their operatic and melodic approach. This chamber concert features two piano quartets that are full of drama and beauty. 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.

Treefest at St Mary Redcliffe Church
2024-12-05 10:00 - 17:00 | St Mary Redcliffe Church, Colston Parade, BS1 6RA
Treefest is a spectacular festive display of Christmas trees held within the splendid church of St Mary Redcliffe.
The festival features dozens of Christmas trees designed local people, schools, businesses, charities, community groups and other organisations – all displayed in the atmospheric gothic surrounds of St Mary Redcliffe. There will also be live musical performances throughout Treefest and a festive market, run by Better Events and featuring products made by local artists and makers, in our Undercroft located beneath our main entrance.
Our Preludes Music students from Ilminster E Act Academy will be performing some festive songs at 12 o’clock in the church.

Bath Choral Society: Messiah
2024-12-06 19:30 - 22:30, 2024-12-07 19:30 - 22:30 | Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, United Kingdom
Bath Choral Society
Bristol Ensemble
Penelope Appleyard soprano
Claudia Huckle alto
Richard Dowling tenor
Simon Thorpe bass
Katrine Reimers conductor
Bath Choral Society once again opens the season of Christmas music at Bath Abbey with performances of Handel’s Messiah. The oratorio relates the biblical prophecies concerning “The Messiah” and how they came to be fulfilled in the course of Christ’s life, from the opening solo ‘Comfort Ye’ and the chorus ‘Unto us a child is born’, through the Passion with ‘Since by man came death’ to the magnificent concluding ‘Amen’.

Bridgerton in Concert
2024-12-13 18:30 - 19:30 | The Mission Theatre, 32 Corn Street, Bath, BA1 1UF, United Kingdom
The Bristol Ensemble presents a captivating concert of music featured in the Netflix hit series Bridgerton at the charming, 200-year-old Mission Theatre. This intimate, historic venue, illuminated by candlelight, provides the perfect setting for an enchanting musical evening.
Programme:
– Bridgerton Theme (Kris Bowers)
– Wildest Dreams (Taylor Swift)
– If I Ain’t Got You (Alicia Keys)
– Halo (Beyoncé)
– Diamonds (Rhianna)
– Wrecking Ball (Miley Cyrus)
– Sign of the Times (Harry Styles)
– What About Us (P!nk)
– Dancing On My Own (Robyn)
– Material Girl (Madonna)
– Thank U, Next (Ariana Grande)
– Girls Like You (Maroon 5)
– In My Blood (Shawn Mendes)
– Bad Guy (Billie Eilish)
– You Oughta know (Alanis Morissette)

Vivaldi's Four Seasons by candlelight
2024-12-13 20:30 - 21:30 | The Mission Theatre, 32 Corn Street, Bath, BA1 1UF, United Kingdom
The Bristol Ensemble presents an electrifying evening at the 200-year-old Mission Theatre, where the timeless masterpiece of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons will be brought to life. Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening, surrounded by the warm glow of candlelight.

Tewkesbury Abbey Schola Cantorum: Handel's Messiah
2024-12-14 19:00 - 22:00 | Tewkesbury Abbey, Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5RZ, United Kingdom
Handel’s Messiah with the Tewkesbury Abbey Schola Cantorum and Bristol Ensemble, conducted by Simon Bell. Soloists are Philippa Hyde (soprano) Nicholas Hariades (alto) Ed Lyon (tenor) and Robert Rice (bass). An evening of beautiful music to begin your Christmas festivities.

Terry Riley - In C
2024-12-15 19:00 - 20:00 | 1904 Arts Club, The Red Lodge, Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LJ, United Kingdom
Programme
Peter McGarr – Vanishing Games
Ruth Gipps – The Piper of dreams – Solo Oboe
Anna Meredith – Blackfriars
Bristol Ensemble performs an intriguing programme of contemporary works in the unique setting of Bristol 1904 Arts Club.
In C is a musical piece composed by Terry Riley in 1964 for an indefinite number of performers. A series of short melodic fragments that can be repeated at the discretion of musicians, In C is often cited as the first minimalist composition to make a significant impact on the public consciousness.
A photo of a young couple sitting on a beach in 1937 was the inspiration for Peter McGarr’s Vanishing Games. The music travels through their imagined life: childhood games, love songs, landscapes and lullabies, always returning the original snapshot, with the words written on the back – ‘Monica and I at Kimnel Bay, 1937.’
The programme also includes works by Ruth Gipps for solo oboe, and Anna Meredith’s Blackfriars for string quartet.
Tickets £20 available from Eventbrite, with a free glass of mulled wine and mince pies included.
We are grateful to the Vaughan Williams Foundation and Francis Routh Foundation for their support.

Bridgerton in concert by Candlelight
2024-12-15 19:30 - 20:40 | Christmas Spiegeltent, Waterfront Square, Off Canons Way, The Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5LL
Join us for an evening at the beautiful Spiegeltent, where flickering candles, timeless classics, and modern hits come together for an unforgettable musical experience!
The Bristol Ensemble brings the Netflix hit series’ iconic music to life with a stunning candlelit concert in the Spiegeltent. Enjoy classical favourites by the likes of Motzart and Handel, as well as pop hits delivered with that wonderful string quartet sound!
Founded 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. Known for its versatility, this collective of specialists delivers top-quality performances to diverse audiences.
Programme
Bridgerton Theme (Kris Bowers)
Wildest Dreams (Taylor Swift)
If I Ain’t Got You (Alicia Keys)
Halo (Beyoncé)
Diamonds (Rhianna)
Wrecking Ball (Miley Cyrus)
Sign of the Times (Harry Styles)
What About Us (P!nk)
Thank U, Next (Ariana Grande)
In My Blood (Shawn Mendes)
Bad Guy (Billie Eilish)
You Oughta know (Alanis Morissette)
… intertwined with some classical favourites
Ticket Info
Premium Theatre Seating £22
Booth Package – £200 (seats 8) Includes entry for 8 people and your own booth with table service
Standard Theatre Seating £18
Accessible Seating £18
Essential Companion Seating £10 – are available to accompany audience members with disabilities, situated next to a seat or space for a patron using a wheelchair or similar.
For our seated shows we have a designated accessible area with 6 spaces for wheelchairs. All 6 spaces each have a seat next to them for a companion.

Anniversary Gala Concert for Christmas
2024-12-17 19:30 - 21:30 | Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, United Kingdom
Artistic Directors –
Lucis
Noctis
Bath Celebration Choir
The Alley Barbers
Cavacante
Bristol Ensemble
David Bednall and Will Ashworth accompanists
Directed by Francis Faux and Tim Snowden
This unique Christmas event, hosted by Lucis Choir in partnership with the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, sees a unique selection of festive music performed by some of Bath’s finest musicians, and a world premiere, Lux Aeterna, written for Lucis by their patron Will Todd, marking their 10th anniversary year.
The Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution has celebrated its bicentenary this year with 12 months of festivals, talks, and events commemorating 200 years of keeping literary and scientific thought at the centre of Bath’s civic life. A special arrangement of O Tannenbaum (O Christmas Tree) which was composed in 1824, the year BRLSI was founded, is being performed to mark their 200th anniversary.
Programme includes:
Wilberg – Ding Dong! Merrily on High
Errolyn Wallen – Peace on earth
Toby Young – O be joyful
Traditional (arr. Faux) – O Tannenbaum
Wilberg – Still, still, still
Tim Snowden – In the bleak midwinter
Traditional – The Holly and the Ivy
Wilson and Love – Little Saint Nick
Head – The little road to Bethlehem
Gjeilo – The rose
Hewitt Jones – The camel carol
Lundu Marajoara
Santa Morena
O Bom Filho a Casa Torna
Berlioz – The shepherds’ farewell
Lauridsen – Sure on this shining night
Francis Faux – Ring out the bells
Will Todd – Lux aeterna (new commission)
Adam – O holy night

Christmas Spectacular
2024-12-18 19:30 - 22:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Exultate Singers
Bristol Ensemble
Roger Huckle director
David Ogden conductor
Bristol Ensemble and Exultate Singers perform their annual feast of beautiful Christmas music, combining light-hearted joyfulness with atmospheric and moving carols and orchestral music, under the direction of David Ogden and Roger Huckle.
“The best Christmas show ever. Great mix of music, fantastic conductor, audience participation and comedy. What more could you ask for – fantastic.” Audience member
“A pure delight – a joyful mix of carols, classical pieces, comedy and audience participation – Christmas has arrived!” Audience member
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.

Christmas Spectacular
2024-12-19 19:30 - 22:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
City of Bristol Choir
Bristol Ensemble
Roger Huckle director
David Ogden conductor
The 100 voices of City of Bristol Choir and professional orchestra Bristol Ensemble join forces to bring Christmas cheer and festivities to the St George’s Bristol stage.
A firm favourite with audience members, this concert combines exquisite festive music with jollity and fun, under the direction of David Ogden and Roger Huckle.
“Simply wonderful! How amazing to make so many people so happy! Totally brilliant!” Audience member
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.

A Baroque Christmas by Candlelight
2024-12-20 19:30 - 21:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Corelli Christmas Concerto in G minor Op 6, No 8
Bach Cantata Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen, BWV 51
Vivaldi Oboe Concerto in C RV451
Bach Concerto for Two Violins in D minor BWV1043
Pachelbel Canon
Handel Let the Bright Seraphim
Handel Rejoice (From Messiah)
Vivaldi Winter from The Four Seasons
Hilary Cronin joins the Bristol Ensemble for a magical Christmas concert of stunning baroque music. Hilary won the international Handel Singing Competition and was selected by BBC Music Magazine as a “Rising Star of 2022.” Praised by Classical Voice North America for her “shining, rounded timbre,” and singled out by The Times as “sensational,” she has established herself as a leading UK Baroque soprano soloist.
Works by Vivaldi, Bach, Handel, Corelli and Pachelbel all performed in the beautiful candlelight atmosphere of St George’s Bristol make this a wonderful intimate and warm Christmas experience.

Festive Fiesta
2024-12-21 19:30 - 22:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
City of Bristol Choir
Bristol Ensemble
Roger Huckle director
David Ogden conductor
Join in with the 100 voices of City of Bristol Choir to sing some of your favourite carols, accompanied by professional orchestra the Bristol Ensemble.
Festive orchestral music and beautiful carols sung by the choir are interspersed with uplifting traditional Christmas carols for audience members to sing, directed by David Ogden and Roger Huckle.
“Wonderful atmosphere with a great mix of classical music, carols and fun.” Audience member
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.

Children's Christmas Carnival
2024-12-22 14:00 - 15:00, 2024-12-22 16:00 - 17:00 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Bristol Ensemble bring their wholesome, interactive, and family-friendly Children’s Christmas Carnival to St George’s! Hosted by West End singer and actor Kat Kleve, the concert offers a fun introduction to all the instruments in the orchestra, showcasing their magic through a performance of Howard Blake’s ‘The Snowman’, narrated by renowned actor and radio voice John Telfer (The Archers), and conducted by Roger Huckle.
The event also features a festive mix of your favourite Christmas songs and Disney hits, guaranteed to get everyone singing, dancing, and filled with holiday cheer. It’s the ultimate Christmas celebration!
Tickets from £7.63 for children, £9.81 for adults including booking fees, from St George’s Bristol box office online, by phone on 0117 929 4929 and over the counter at St George’s.

Christmas Special by Candlelight
2024-12-22 19:30 - 21:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
The Military Wives join the Bristol Ensemble for an uplifting programme of Christmas classics that will get you singing and clapping along. A perfect way to get into the Christmas mood.
Tickets from £15 plus St George’s booking fees from St George’s Bristol box office online, by phone on 0117 929 4929, or over the counter at St George’s.

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.

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.

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.
