OCMF24 is going to take us on a joyful adventure of nostalgia and discovery through an intriguing variety of our native musical landscapes. Some works are already known and much loved, but we’ll also celebrate unfamiliar masterpieces that are significant landmarks in the musical heritage of these islands.

September’s concerts lectures and events again feature outstanding artists that include

Quatuor Ébène, Elisabeth Leonskaja, O/Modernt Chamber Orchestra, Hugo Ticciati, Natalie Clein, Julius Drake and other distinguished performers in a programme exploring a spectrum of musical expression through the centuries. Beginning with the Renaissance and early masters – Dowland, Byrd, Purcell, Handel – and on to Elgar, Britten, Vaughan Williams, Bridge, Walton, Tippett, Adès, Clarke, Frances-Hoad, Tavener, MacMillan, as well as a look into the roots of our traditional Celtic and English folk music. All the festival’s featured composers and compositions exemplify a surprising and inspiring diversity and creative genius in the ways they have enriched the UK’s unique musical culture. Sometimes it’s easy to forget the extraordinary wealth of music that has been composed in the United Kingdom, which captures the spirit, vision and beauty of ‘These Enchanted Isles’.

For the very first time we are holding Masterclasses, welcoming highly talented young musicians to participate. Some of these will be open to the general public at the Holywell and it is also the first time the Quatour Ébène are teaching in the UK.

Come and join the experience of uplifting energy, passion and intensity which is the essence of the Oxford Chamber Music Festival. Not just in a week of concerts but at workshops, educational outreach and events all through 2024 within some of Oxford’s most beautiful and historical venues.

See you soon!

Priya Mitchell

Quatuor Ébène | Elisabeth Leonskaja | O/Modernt Chamber Orchestra & Hugo Ticciati | Natalie Clein | Julius Drake