Music

The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

United Kingdom

“Never have I heard an orchestra fizz at such speed, energy or accuracy, utterly in period, smiles radiating as they relished each other’s playing.” The Independent

An era of beautiful music and great innovation will be revived in two performances by the UK’s leading period instrument ensemble, The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE).

Founded in 1986, this 45-piece orchestra combines period authenticity with contemporary values. Music from the late 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries is brought to life with instruments similar to those for which the composer would have written, enabling 21st century audiences to hear works in a fresh and exciting way. Original versions of the music are also used when possible, rather than modern editions which may have centuries of added marks.

In the first of two contrasting programmes, soloists from OAE feature in concertos and suites from the early 18th century, directed by violinist Elizabeth Wallfisch. Some of Mozart’s most beautiful music is presented in the second programme, with leading German soprano Ruth Ziesak and Hungarian conductor Iván Fischer.

An accomplished group of performers who capture the spirit and vitality of a revolutionary time in world history, OAE proves that new doesn’t always mean better.

Concert One - Tuesday
HANDEL: Arrival of the Queen of Sheba from Solomon
LOCKE: Suite from The Tempest
VIVALDI: Concerto for Flute in D (RV428) ‘Il gardellino’
GEMINIANI: Concerto Grosso No 12 in D minor ‘La Folia’
RAMEAU: Suite from Les Paladins
HANDEL: Water Music: Suite No 1 in F

Director - Elizabeth Wallfisch

Concert Two - Wednesday
MOZART: From The Marriage of Figaro: Overture, Deh vieni, Dove sono
MOZART: From Il Re Pastore: Overture, L'amero, saro
MOZART: From Don Giovanni: Overture, Mi tradi quell'alma ingrata
SCHUBERT: German Dances, D 90
HAYDN: Symphony No. 102 in B-flat

Conductor – Iván Fischer

Soprano – Ruth Ziesak

If this event interests you our Artistic Director also recommends Pre-show dialogue with members of OAE, Tea , James McMillan conducts, New Zealand String Quartet, Passio, Arkangleos and Parsifal.