Embrace the short, crisp days band cold, long nights.
The festive season can often be a hectic time of year. Wintering is a balm for the soul – an invitation to slow down, to reconnect with the land and one another, as we usher in the solstice.
What if we made peace with the darkest time of year? Inspired by Katherine May’s bestselling book ‘Wintering’, a new piece from composer Samantha Fernando asks us to cherish nature’s fallow period and draw on its power for healing.
Vocal ensemble The Marian Consort joins Manchester Collective’s string quartet for this intimate performance of music across the centuries. Expect a deeply restorative evening, as we find respite in an alternative nativity song, crystalline harmonies, and a meditation on freedom and unity.
Samantha Fernando’s ‘Wintering’ is commissioned by Wigmore Hall
Dates
22 Nov – London – Wigmore Hall – Book →
27 Nov – Manchester – Stoller Hall – Book →
28 Nov – Leeds – Howard Assembly Room
29 Nov – Liverpool– The Tung Auditorium – Book →
3 Dec – York – Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall
5 Dec – Bristol – Bristol Beacon – Book →
Check times, ticket prices and access info via the links above
Setlist
Andrzej Panufnik Song to the Virgin Mary
Orlando di Lassus selections from Prophetiae Sibyllarum Motets
David Lang the national anthems, i. & iii.
Jonathan Dove selections from Out of Time
Samantha Fernando Wintering (new commission)
Approximate runtime: 75 mins plus interval
Line-up
Manchester Collective String quartet
The Marian Consort Vocal ensemble
Part of 25/26
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We’re all about the atmosphere and immersion. You might encounter lighting to set the mood, amplified sound to deliver music straight to your eardrums, or maybe a little bit of haze.
Between pieces, our performers often share a short explanation about the music. They might chat about what to listen out for, the themes or their personal experience.
Rather than the standard black attire, our musicians wear what they feel is comfortable: whether that’s a colourful dress, or a woolly jumper if it’s chilly.
To us, music is most powerful when it’s immediate and personal, not bound by convention. Whether you’re a first-timer or veteran concert-goer, you’re invited to a new kind of classical music experience.
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From warehouses to concert halls, everywhere we play is unique.
At underground and independent venues, it’s a more intimate experience. You can expect to get up close and personal to the musicians, hear outside noise and grab a drink at the bar. Don’t forget to wrap up warm!
The “Book” links under Dates & Tickets lead to venue websites. There, you’ll be able to find specific access information. Please note that some independent venues might be standing shows, with the option to request a seat if you need one. This will be specified on the booking page.
If you have any questions at all about access, get in touch at events@manchestercollective.co.uk and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
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Our performances aren’t formal – so you don’t have to be either! Dress in whatever style makes you feel comfortable, just as our performers do.
If you’ve never been to a classical concert before, you might be worried about rules and etiquette. That’s not what we’re about. You’re free to bring the same excitement and respect you would to any other performance.
Depending on the venue, you might be able to take a couple photos and short videos during the show. If you’re filming the entire gig, we promise we have better recordings on our YouTube channel.
All we ask is that you listen with an open mind and ears.
“Sensuous, exhilarating and revelatory”
THE TIMES
“Fantastic, stunning musicians, so beautiful – moved to tears”
AUDIENCE MEMBER, THE UNFURROWED FIELD