The Royall Consort

We begin this evening in the sophisticated courts of the seventeenth century, a period where chamber music blossomed into high art. You will hear two selections from William Lawes’ Royal Consort, works which anchor the programme with their rich, intertwining textures for strings. Between these, the ensemble explores a variety of European styles, moving from the rhythmic vibrancy of Samuel Scheidt’s Ludi Musici to the intricate, virtuoso variations of Christopher Simpson. Listen for the distinct contrast between the structured German dances and the expressive, ‘modern’ Italian style found in Dario Castello’s sonatas. The music of this era is often characterised by its intimacy and the lively, conversational exchange between performers. The inclusion of solo works by Kapsberger and Baltzar allows you to hear the technical range of individual instruments before the full ensemble reunites for John Jenkins’ Newark Siege, a evocative piece that captures the specific historical drama of the English Civil War through sound.

The Academy of Ancient Music is one of the most respected period-instrument ensembles in the United Kingdom, based in Cambridge and performing regularly at major London venues. They are led here by conductor Laurence Cummings, a specialist renowned for his clarity and deep understanding of the Baroque and Renaissance eras. The ensemble is celebrated for its commitment to historically informed performance, using gut strings and authentic techniques to recreate the specific acoustic colours that composers like Lawes and Castello originally intended. Their playing is typically noted for its precision and the scholarly rigour they bring to early chamber music.

This performance takes place at the Milton Court Concert Hall in London, a venue known for its excellent acoustics and modern seating. As a chamber concert featuring a series of shorter, diverse works, it is well-suited if you are a first-time visitor to early music or if you prefer a programme with frequent changes of mood and tempo. There is no specific dress code for this event; most audience members choose smart-casual attire. The running time has not been confirmed, but similar chamber evenings typically include a short interval between the gathered works.