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Music at Oxford: Fretwork My Days – A Celebration of Orlando Gibbons
07 June 2025 @ 7.30pm to 9.30pm
About Music at Oxford: Fretwork My Days – A Celebration of Orlando Gibbons
Pioneering viol consort Fretwork is joined by the cream of British singing talent for a celebration of the astonishingly rich music of composer Orlando Gibbons.
The concert includes two of his great anthems, some of his greatest consort music – possibly the finest chamber music ever composed in England – his moving tribute to Prince Henry, and the riotous and irreverent Cries of London. A vocal and instrumental tour de force, where street traders shout out news of their wares, and we can buy fish, apple pies, chestnuts, cabbage, ink, oysters, waistcoats; even a poking stick with a dubious handle…
All of Jacobean life, packed into a few minutes. Bringing the celebration up to date is a piece by acclaimed composer Nico Muhly. With its hazy harmony and unexpected twists, it is a fitting tribute to Gibbons and the Elizabethan and Tudor musical tradition.
About the Artist
In 2021, Fretwork celebrated 35 years of performing music old and new, and looks forward to a challenging and exciting future as the world’s leading consort of viols.
In these last three and a half decades, they have explored the core repertory of great English consort music, from Taverner to Purcell, and made classic recordings against which others are judged.
Their series of discs for Virgin Classics included CDs devoted to William Lawes, Henry Purcell, William Byrd, Matthew Locke, John Dowland and Orlando Gibbons; while their more recent work for Harmonia Mundi USA has produced three discs of J.S.Bach — The Art of Fugue, Alio Modo and The Goldberg Variations — which have been exuberantly praised; and discs of the earliest instrumental music (Petrucci); Sir John Tavener’s The Hidden Face; Thomas Tomkins; Alexander Agricola & Fabrice Fitch; Ludwig Senfl with Charles Daniels and two collaborations with the choir of Magdalen College, Oxford.
Their recording of concert songs by William Byrd with Emma Kirkby has received particular praise.
In addition to this, Fretwork have become known as pioneers of contemporary music for viols, having commissioned over 40 new works. The list of composers is like the role call of the most prominent writers of our time: George Benjamin, Michael Nyman, Sir John Tavener, Gavin Bryars, Elvis Costello, Nico Muhly, John Woolrich, Orlando Gough, Sally Beamish, Tan Dun, Barry Guy, Thea Musgrave – to name but a few.
The group now frequently presents programmes consisting entirely of contemporary music, though most audiences find that the creative tension of juxtaposing old and new leads to a thrilling experience.
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
Full Price: £29.00 – £45.00
Concession: £14.50 – £22.50
Dates & times:
Saturday 07 June 2025 at 7.30pm
Running time:
2 hours, including an interval
Good to know:
Please note that Jeremy Budd has been replaced by Simon Wall in this performance.
About SJE Arts Oxford
SJE Arts Oxford is a concert venue and arts organisation based at St John the Evangelist Church on Iffley Road, Oxford.
The church itself was built in the 19th century as part of a monastery established by the Cowley Fathers, an Anglican religious community. Its striking Victorian Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere provide an exceptional setting for artistic and cultural events.
Since its transformation into an arts venue, SJE Arts has become known for its outstanding acoustics and diverse programming. It regularly hosts classical music concerts, jazz performances, choral recitals, and more, attracting internationally acclaimed musicians and ensembles. The venue also contributes to the cultural vibrancy of Oxford by offering visual arts exhibitions, lectures, and community events.
Conveniently located near the city centre, SJE Arts blends history and culture, making it a favourite destination for locals and visitors seeking enriching artistic experiences.
Find out more SJE Arts Oxford, including facilities, access and venue information.
