St. Mary’s Church in Attleborough is preparing to host the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE) on June 29, as part of the Attleborough Music Project (AMP) which aims to establish a centre of excellence for music in the region. The OAE, UK’s leading period instrument orchestra, will present a ‘Baroquebusters’ concert featuring a programme of well-known tunes on historic instruments. The concert is designed to offer a fresh perspective on familiar classics and explore why this music has remained popular for centuries. The musicians of the OAE will provide insight into their love for these pieces and how performing on period instruments enhances the listening experience.
The Baroquebusters concert will feature performances of iconic pieces such as Spring from The Four Seasons by Vivaldi, Handel’s Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, ‘Air on the G String’ by Bach, Pachelbel’s Canon, and more. The event promises thrilling performances and opportunities for audience members to engage with the music on a deeper level. In addition to the concert, the OAE will conduct workshops for children from local primary schools, allowing them to participate in song and actions with the orchestra. AMP music outreach worker, Judith Williams, expressed excitement about this collaboration and the opportunity for children to sing alongside a top London orchestra, highlighting the impact of bringing world-class music to Norfolk.
The broader aim of the Attleborough Music Project includes the renovation of church buildings to create a purpose-built music centre that will serve as a venue for community events, concerts, and recitals. Plans also include the restoration of the church pipe organ, ensuring its continued use for future generations. Fundraising efforts, such as the hymn marathon in August 2022, have already made significant progress towards the project goal. The initiative aims to inspire local children in music making and promote a vibrant music culture in the region. Rev. Matthew Jackson, Rector of St. Mary’s Church, emphasized the importance of bringing world-class music to Norfolk and inspiring the community through musical experiences.
Those interested in attending the Baroquebusters concert can visit the St. Mary’s Church website for tickets and more information. The event promises to be a memorable evening of music that showcases the talents of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and highlights the beauty of historic instruments. Through workshops and community outreach, the Attleborough Music Project is working to foster a love for music in the region and create opportunities for people of all ages to engage with classical music in a meaningful way. The project’s efforts to preserve and promote music heritage demonstrate dedication to enriching the cultural landscape of Attleborough and beyond.
