The English Concert, a renowned musical ensemble, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special project titled “Handel for All.” This initiative aims to release new recordings of Handel’s works that are free and accessible to all. In addition to this project, the group will also be hosting a series of concerts and events this spring to commemorate this milestone.
One of the highlights of the upcoming performances is a concert featuring Sopranos Jeanine de Bique and Liv Redpath, mezzo-soprano Maite Beaumont, countertenors Justin Kim and Iestyn Davies, tenor James Way, and bass Federico Sacchi. They will be performing Monteverdi’s “The Coronation of Poppea” under the direction of Harry Bicket at the Palau de La Musica in Barcelona on March 17, 2024.
Furthermore, the London Handel Festival will showcase Handel’s “Brockes Passion” at St. George’s, Hanover Square on March 27, 2024. This performance will feature sopranos Hilary Cronin, Elizabeth Watts, and Nardus Williams, alto Jess Dandy, tenor Robert Murray, bass Morgan Pearse, and the orchestra.
On April 10, 2024, mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo will join The English Concert and Harry Bicket for an exploration of Handel and his contemporaries Ferrandini and Corelli.
The Surrey Hills Music Festival on May 18, 2024, will star Dame Sarah Connolly in a performance under the direction of Harry Bicket, celebrating Bach and Handel. The concert will feature Bicket’s arrangement of Bach’s “Trio über Allein Gott” and the overture to Handel’s works.
Lastly, in collaboration with Garsington Opera, The English Concert will present performances of Rameau’s “Platé” from May 29 to June 30, 2024. Tenor Samuel Boden will take on the title role, with a talented cast including soprano Mireille Asselin, tenor Robert Murray, baritone Jonathan McGovern, and basses Henry Waddington, Un Satrye, and Ossian Huskinson. Paul Agnew will conduct the performance, marking his debut with Garsington Opera.
Overall, The English Concert’s upcoming schedule promises a diverse and exciting lineup of performances that showcase the group’s commitment to bringing classical music to a wider audience.
