Bristol Ensemble

Music for Miniatures
2025-05-10 10:30 - 11:15 (Europe/London) | 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.

Shostakovich 50
2025-05-14 19:30 - 21:30 | St George’s Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol, BS1 5RR, United Kingdom
Viv McLean Pianist
Dmitri Shostakovich
Piano Concerto No.2 in F Op.102
Chamber Symphony in C minor No.110a
The Gadfly Suite
Waltz No.2

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the passing of Dmitri Shostakovich, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. Known for his music’s unique blend of mockery, irony, grandeur, and despair, Shostakovich’s vast body of work continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

With 15 symphonies, 15 string quartets, operas, and chamber works, his music is a testament to his mastery of large-scale forms. It often reflects the tumultuous spirit of his time while also expressing his deeply personal and enduring vision.

Join the Bristol Ensemble in celebrating this musical icon, featuring the acclaimed soloist Viv McLean performing the breathtaking Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Op. 102, a work known for its radiant energy, lyrical beauty, and exhilarating virtuosity.

Tickets from £12 to £30 plus St George’s booking fees, available from the box office by phone on 0117 929 4929, over the counter at St George’s Bristol, and online at www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk/whats-on/bristol-ensemble-shostakovich-50

Preludes Music school concerts
2025-05-19 | 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.

Preludes Music concert: Hope and Light
2025-05-22 12:30 - 14:15 | St Mary Redcliffe Church, Colston Parade, BS1 6RA
300 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. This year, the programme will reach around 4,500 children.

Tasting Tunes
2025-05-23 19:30 - 21:30 | 1904 Arts Club, The Red Lodge, Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LJ, United Kingdom
As part of the Bristol Ensemble’s Tasting Tunes series of musical wine-tasting events, this evening will celebrate a selection of fine French wines alongside the iconic music of beloved French artist Édith Piaf.
Imagine a cozy and intimate setting, where you can enjoy a glass of wine and listen to the beautiful sounds of a live string quartet.
You’ll be welcomed to the 1904 Arts Club, a hidden gem behind the Red Lodge Museum, with its quirky artefacts and cabaret-style seating. As the candles flicker, you’ll be treated to a live performances of Edith Piaf’s iconic music including Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien and La Vie En Rose by the Bristol Ensemble, the city’s leading professional orchestra.
You’ll also get to taste four fine French wines, carefully selected by Oboe Fine Wines, who are known for their quality, sustainability and biodiversity. They’ll take you on a journey through each wine, sharing the stories behind the music and the regions they come from.
What’s included?

A live string quartet performance of Édith Piaf’s iconic music
To celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the death of Erik Satie the ensemble also performs Trois Gymnopédies
Four fine French wines, expertly selected by Oboe Fine Wines
Guided wine-tasting experience with insights into the music and regions
An intimate, candlelit setting at the 1904 Arts Club
A unique evening of culture, music, and fine wine in a cabaret-style venue

Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a fun outing with friends, or a chance to meet new people, this event is perfect for you. You’ll have a vibrant and relaxing evening, full of culture, flavour and joy!
Tickets are £40 per adult (£70 for two), available now online at www.yuup.co

Breathe Music: Norton sub Hamdon
2025-05-30 19:30 - 22:00 | Norton-sub-Hamdon Village Hall, New Road, Norton-sub-Hamdon, TA14 6SF
Join us for Postcards from Tchaikovsky, an evening of rich and evocative string music inspired by the composer’s travels. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s passionate Souvenir de Florence and the deeply expressive Andante Cantabile, performed by cello soloist Harriet Wiltshire, this program brings to life the places that shaped his musical world. Tchaikovsky often visited Paris to hear Mozart’s Don Giovanni and The Marriage of Figaro, so expect a touch of Mozart alongside other hidden gems from the cities he adored. A journey in music not to be missed!
A bar and refreshments will be available before the event and during the interval.
Please let us know if you have any special access or disability requirements.

BE Together
2025-06-02 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-06-05 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-06-26 11:00 - 15:00 | Wiltshire
This year, Bristol Ensemble are hosting another round of ‘BE Together’ concerts, bringing live orchestral music, collaboration, and creativity, to older people in different settings across Bristol and the local region.
Each visit will be tailored to the recipient group and involve a performance by four professional musicians (a singer, pianist, violinist, and cellist) who play for the Bristol Ensemble, plus joint musical or singing activities.
Musicians will perform a varied programme of recognisable and poignant pieces, designed to inspire memories, delight, bring joy, and offer comfort and solace to audiences. The programme will feature classical pieces, music from theatre or film, and/or popular music.
We are grateful to The Grateful Society for their support towards this project.

Breathe Music: Mozart and More
2025-06-06 18:30 - 19:30, 2025-06-06 20:30 - 21:30 | The Crown, Pilton, Conduit Square, Pilton, Shepton Mallet, BA4 4EA, United Kingdom
Join the Bristol Ensemble for Mozart and More, an evening of wonderful music at The Crown, Pilton. Featuring Mozart’s Duo Concertante, presented in a rarely heard sextet arrangement, the concert explores both the timeless and the inventive. Alongside the elegance of Haydn, Caroline Shaw’s Entr’acte brings a modern twist—drawing from Haydn’s own work but venturing into a whimsical, mirror-world where tradition transforms into vibrant new forms. Mozart and More promises an evening of captivating contrasts and delicate transitions.
There will be two separate one-hour performances of the programme on the evening. The first will start at 6.30pm, the second at 8.30pm. With an early start, the 6.30pm performance encourages a family experience! When purchasing your ticket, just choose your preferred time.
Settle in with a glass of wine, relax, and experience this outstanding musical offering in the intimate, welcoming atmosphere of The Crown—a village pub with a history as rich as the music itself.

Henleaze Concert Society: Mozart and More
2025-06-07 19:30 - 21:30 | Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Bristol, BS9 4BT, United Kingdom
Join the Bristol Ensemble for Mozart and More, an evening of delightful classical-era music. Opening with Mozart’s Duo Concertante, presented in a rarely heard sextet arrangement, the concert explores both the timeless and the inventive. Alongside the elegance of Haydn, Caroline Shaw’s Entr’acte brings a modern twist—drawing from Haydn’s own work but venturing into a whimsical, mirror-world where tradition transforms into vibrant new forms.
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: Mozart and More
2025-06-08 15:00 - 16:00 | Christ Church, Newmarket Road, Nailsworth, GL6 0DQ, United Kingdom
Join the Bristol Ensemble for Mozart and More, a recital of delightful classical-era music.
Opening with Mozart’s Duo Concertante, presented in a rarely heard sextet arrangement, the concert explores both the timeless and the inventive. Alongside the elegance of Haydn, Caroline Shaw’s Entr’acte brings a modern twist—drawing from Haydn’s own work but venturing into a whimsical, mirror-world where tradition transforms into vibrant new forms.
Tea and cakes served at 4pm.
Tickets £15, available on the door and online at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nailsworth-mozart-and-more-tickets-1270337055329

Preludes Music school concerts
2025-06-09 | Swindon, Swindon

Preludes Music school concerts
2025-06-10, 2025-06-16, 2025-06-23 | Bristol, Bristol

Richter and Vivaldi – A Glorious Summer
2025-06-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Bristol Cathedral, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TJ, United Kingdom
Experience one of Bristol’s most anticipated choral performances this summer at Bristol Cathedral. Join the Bristol Cathedral Choir and Bristol Ensemble as they unite for a stunning performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria, known for its uplifting choral energy. The evening will also feature Max Richter’s innovative reimagining of The Four Seasons, blending Vivaldi’s iconic composition with modern elements for a fresh, exciting take.
The concert will be complemented by lesser-known pieces from contemporary composers such as Ola Gjeilo and Henryk Gorécki, whose atmospheric works provide a perfect contrast to the evening’s repertoire.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Bristol Cathedral, this concert offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy world-class choral and instrumental music in one of the city’s most remarkable settings. The Cathedral’s breathtaking acoustics enhance every note, making it the ideal place to experience these powerful compositions.
Bristol Cathedral Choir, conducted by Mark Lee, Director of Music, is a dedicated and talented ensemble known for their exceptional performances, especially during their beloved Carols by Candlelight service. With a strong commitment to excellence, the choir practices regularly to deliver beautiful and moving music at services and special events throughout the year.
Doors open: 6:30pm
Performance starts: 7:00pm
Format: Reserved seating
Age: Suitable for all ages

Vivaldi Four Seasons by Candlelight
2025-06-13 19:30 - 21:30 | The Princess Theatre and Arts Centre, Princess Street, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, TA8 1EH
Bristol Ensemble
Roger Huckle director/soloist
Antonio Vivaldi The Four Seasons
Ludovico Einaudi Primavera, Divenire, Petricor, I Giorni
The wonderful nature inspired music of Vivaldi and Einaudi come together in this stunning summer concert.
Vivaldi’s The 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’, which conclude an emotional and uplifting programme of music.
Tickets £21 available online at www.theprincesstheatre.co.uk/events/bristol-ensemble, by phone on 01278 784464 or over the counter at The Princess Theatre.

Vivaldi's Four Seasons by Candlelight
2025-06-14 20:30 - 21:30 | The Mission Theatre, 32 Corn Street, Bath, BA1 1UF, United Kingdom
Join the Bristol Ensemble for a joyful celebration of one of the most beloved works in classical music!
In this special anniversary performance, the Bristol Ensemble will guide you through Vivaldi’s iconic ‘Four Seasons’ with witty and insightful introductions, revealing the hidden stories behind his groundbreaking music.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the work for the first time, this unique event promises to be both entertaining and enlightening.
Join the Bristol Ensemble for a magical candlelit concert celebrating the 300th anniversary of Vivaldi’s timeless masterpiece.

Stardust and The Space Between The Stars
2025-06-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, United Kingdom
Stardust is back and this time with its brand-new prequel, The Space Between the Stars, performed in one unforgettable event!
Join 250 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 and The Space Between the Stars have been commissioned by Voices for Life. Through a series of school workshops and rehearsals, our young space explorers have been preparing to discover what exciting adventures await them beyond Earth’s horizons! They’ll encounter various challenges as they seek out a new planet to call home, but we’re sure that with courage and the help of their newfound friends, they’ll make it through.
The children’s performance will be conducted by Katrine Reimers, 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.
Tickets from £4, available from Bath Box Office online at bathboxoffice.org.uk and by phone on 01225 463362.

Vivaldi: The Four Seasons - The Opera
2025-06-28 18:30 - 21:30 | Prior Park College Chapel, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH, United Kingdom
Lucis Choir
Bristol Ensemble
Francis Faux and Richard Mainwaring artistic directors
On the 300th anniversary of its publication, Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons has been reimagined as an opera by composer, author and broadcaster Richard Mainwaring. The story centres around an ill-fated couple who ignore the warnings of Mother Nature, ultimately paying the price for human folly and arrogance. The protagonists – Bella and Pietro – fall in love in spring; pay no attention to the warning storms of summer; bear a child in autumn; and perish in winter.
Though Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons – The Opera touches on modern climate change issues, it is musically very much rooted in 1725. Mainwaring’s adaptation remains faithful to the original score, taking additional recitatives from other Vivaldi works. The opera’s music remains instantly recognisable, transforming some of the greatest melodies into emotional vocal lines full of passion, remorse, celebration and foreboding. Collaborating with writer Jo Yeaxlee-Batch, the libretto for The Four Seasons is set in 18th century English, as if translated at the time of publication.
5.30pm – Audience welcome to picnic in the grounds
6.30pm – Prosecco reception (included in ticket price)
7.30pm – Concert start
Approx. run time of 2hrs.
Tickets £35 including prosecco reception (under 18s £10), available from Bath Box Office online or by phone on 01225 463362

Vivaldi Four Seasons
2025-07-17 19:30 - 21:30 | King’s Bruton Recital Hall, The Plox, Bruton, BA10 0ED, United Kingdom
Come and join us at King’s Bruton to enjoy a wonderful evening of classical music. Principals from The Bristol Ensemble, Bristol’s own professional ensemble, perform music themed by the seasons, culminating in a full performance of the magnificent Four Seasons by Vivaldi.

If Opera: Tales from the SS Great Britain
2025-07-19 18:00 - 23:00 | SS Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, BS1 6TY, United Kingdom
This summer, If Opera, one of the UK’s most progressive and exciting opera ensembles, is partnering with the SS Great Britain Trust to bring a spectacular dining performance to Bristol.
Tales from the SS Great Britain follows a cast of characters who share their stories of love and laughter, tragedy and loss. Passengers will come to life like never before through music and songs that promise to both sadden and gladden the heart.
Mr Brunel will be present to compère for the evening. He will guide guests as they journey through the lives of fascinating characters who travelled at sea and from operatic history. The performance is accompanied by three delicious courses served on board the iconic SS Great Britain in the elegant First Class Dining Saloon.
The evening will feature some of opera’s most beloved music accompanied by musicians from the Bristol Ensemble, where guests can delight in beautiful arias from some of the greatest composers in history.
Doors open at 6pm
Arrival drink
3-course dinner
If Opera performances between courses
Finishes at 11pm
Tickets can be bought individually or as tables of up to 8 people. Please note bookings for this event close on 4 July.

Kevin Figes: Sound Dimensions
2025-07-30 20:00 - 22:00 | The Mount Without, Upper Church Ln, Bristol, BS2 8FN, United Kingdom
Kevin Figes saxophone and composer
Brigitte Beraha vocals
Gaz Williams electronics
Bristol Ensemble
Bristol composer and saxophonist Kevin Figes presents Sound Dimensions: an ambitious new suite inspired by Italian greats Ennio Morricone, Luigi Nono and Bruno Maderna.
Featuring the Bristol Ensemble, vocalist Brigitte Beraha, electronics from Gaz Williams and leading South West musicians, this genre-defying performance fuses jazz, classical and experimental sounds into a bold, cinematic experience.
Format: Seated
Age: 14+

If Opera: Rigoletto
2025-08-07 19:00 - 21:30 | Church Farm, Wingfield, Church Farm, Wingfield, Wiltshire, BA14 9LE
Giuseppe Verdi Rigoletto
Libretto by Francesca Maria Piave, based on Victor Hugo’s Le roi s’amuse
First performed 11th March 1851 at La Fenice, Venice
Conductor Oliver Gooch
Director Nina Brazier
Designer Elliott Squire
Lighting Designer Luca Panetta
Bristol Ensemble
Sung in Italian with English surtitles
Since its triumphant premiere in 1851, Verdi’s masterpiece Rigoletto has remained at the very heart of the operatic repertoire. The story revolves around Rigoletto, the court jester to the morally corrupt Duke of Mantua, who is tormented by the Duke’s lecherous behaviour and vows to protect his daughter, Gilda. However, the Duke has already set his sights on the innocent girl, and Rigoletto unknowingly facilitates the seduction, with devastating consequences.
Renowned for its powerful arias, including Gilda’s exquisite idealisation of her new lover in Caro nome, and the Duke’s carefree La donna è mobile reflecting on the fickle nature of women, we are offered two deeply contrasting perspectives on love and relationships.
As we follow Rigoletto’s internal struggle, we witness a tragedy which captures the complexities of love, betrayal and sacrifice, the corrupting influence of power, and the very nature of revenge.
4.30pm Gardens & restaurant open
7pm Performance starts
9.30pm Approximate end
Running time: two hours with half-hour interval
Tickets £30 to £120, available online at www.ifopera.com/rigoletto and from Bath Box Office on 01225 463362.

If Opera: Orpheus in the Underworld
2025-08-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Church Farm, Wingfield, Church Farm, Wingfield, Wiltshire, BA14 9LE
Jacques Offenbach Orpheus in the Underworld
Libretto by Hector Crémieux and Ludovic Halévy
Sung (mostly) in J R Planché’s London version (1865)
Narrative script and lyrics for five additional numbers by Simon Butteriss
Two act version first performed 21st October 1858 at the Théâtre des Bouffes-Parisiens
Michael Waldron conductor
Simon Butteriss director
Elliott Squire associate designer
Luca Panetta lighting designer
Bristol Ensemble
Sung in English with surtitles
Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld scandalized and delighted 19th century Paris – no one was safe and nothing was sacred as Offenbach cut a gleeful swathe through political, musical and moral peccadilloes with a dazzlingly tuneful score that embraced both the Can-Can and the Marseillaise. Offenbach, dubbed by Rossini the Mozart of the Champs Elysées, pokes hilarious fun at po-faced classical opera in general and Gluck in particular as Orpheus is dragged to Hell to rescue an unwilling wife, accompanied by the Gods, in search of Bacchanalian joy.
“National treasure” (BBC Music Magazine) Simon Butteriss adapts and directs what promises to be an outrageously joyous version of Offenbach’s comic masterpiece.
4.30pm Gardens & restaurant open
7pm Performance starts
9pm Approximate end
Running time: two hours with half-hour interval
Tickets £30 to £120, available online at www.ifopera.com/orpheus-in-the-underworld and from Bath Box Office on 01225 463362.
