Bristol - Bach’s orchestral suites
St John on the Wall, Bristol
St John on the Wall, Bristol - oil paintings on the reredos
© CCT
Enjoy an evening of breathtaking Bach in the stunning setting of Bristol St John
For many years Music for Awhile has performed Bach in country churches. This evening they offer you a variety of instrumentations, from a string quartet only arrangement of the suite with the famous ‘Air on the G String’, the flute suite in an instrumentation probably very close to what Bach had in mind, and two suites with the wind, brass and timpani parts distributed between string players but with the added textural variety and colour of a continuo harpsichord.
Through the generous sponsorship of the Cecil King Memorial Foundation, all ticket proceeds will go to the church.
The Programme
The Performers
Katy Bircher - flute
Maggie Faultless - violin
Rachel Stroud - violin
Anna Curzon - viola
Andrew Skidmore - cello
Steven Devine - harpsichord
About Music for Awhile
In 1996 Simon Whistler and Margaret Faultless decided to celebrate their love of a tiny church in its magical setting with a concert, inviting musician friends of international standing to perform. The church was All Saints, Alton Priors, and Music for Awhile was born.
Music for Awhile's annual focus is still the summer festival in the Vale of Pewsey but other performances take place throughout the year, including a chamber series, which for many years was held at Conock Manor. Festival programmes have included performances of early English opera, masques and theatre music. Music for Awhile has premiered new editions of manuscript material from the British Library and has created new works combining music and poetry.
Music for Awhile receives generous funding from Trusts and sponsors, supporting our series of concerts in churches, fundraising for these historic buildings, as well as bringing live music to communities.
Key information
- Running time: Approximately 120 minutes
- What3Words Location: ///claps.player.heads
- Parking: There is no on-street parking at this venue - for parking please view Bristol Council carparks.
- Seating Provided: Yes. (As the majority of seating is on church pews do feel free to bring a cushion.)
- Food and Drink: Refreshments will be served in the Crypt during the interval (please note, steep stairs are present)
- Dogs: No dogs other than guide dogs will be admitted to this performance.
- Wheelchair User Access: The church is not wheelchair accessible; there a 6 steps up into the church and 4 down into the crypt. If you have access requirements, please contact us before purchasing tickets.
Note: Many of our historic venues are without heating and can therefore be cold in all seasons so please dress warmly. This site has limited access to toilet facilities by arrangement with a local hotel.