The Night Shift at The Fiddler’s Elbow

We are looking at a selection of Baroque and early-modern works that showcase the varied textures of seventeenth and eighteenth-century music. In this set, you will hear pieces by Monteverdi, Biber, and Handel, alongside less frequently heard compositions by Merula and Mealli. The evening is designed to offer a relaxed look at this era, stripping away the formality often associated with the period. You should listen for the distinct tonal qualities of the period instruments, which provide a sharper, more translucent sound than their modern counterparts. Biber’s work often involves unconventional tunings or playful structural choices, while the selections from Handel and Monteverdi provide a foundation of melodic clarity and expressive depth. The flow of the evening is structured to bridge the gap between early Italian vocal influences and the later, more robust instrumental styles of the High Baroque.

The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment is performing under the direction of Kinga Ujszászi. The ensemble is celebrated for its commitment to period-specific performance practice, using historical instruments to capture the original spirit of the works they play. They are the resident orchestra at the Southbank Centre but are equally well-known for their informal Night Shift series, which brings classical music into alternative spaces. Kinga Ujszászi, a specialist in Baroque violin, leads the group with an approach that emphasises the raw energy and rhythmic vitality inherent in these early scores.

This performance takes place at The Fiddler’s Elbow in Chalk Farm, London. With a total duration of 120 minutes, it is a substantial evening of music, yet the informal setting makes it particularly suitable for those who prefer a casual environment over a traditional concert hall. The venue is a pub rather than a formal theatre, so there is no specific dress code; you will find a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy the music with a drink. It is a good choice if you are new to period instruments and want to experience them in a close-knit, social space.