The English Concert

The English Concert is an outstanding orchestra: exceptional, in the world-renowned quality, ambition and variety of its live and recorded output; unique, in the zeal of its players for working and performing together; unwavering, in its desire to connect with its audience throughout the world. Founded by Trevor Pinnock in 1972 and now under the artistic direction of Harry Bicket and principal guest Kristian Bezuidenhout, group has earned a reputation for combining urgency, passion, and fire with precision, delicacy, and beauty.

Trevor Pinnock directed the ensemble for more than three decades, shaping the orchestra’s distinctive sound and championing the performance of Baroque and Classical music on period instruments. The orchestra’s outstanding recording output under his leadership, which includes critically acclaimed interpretations of Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi, garnered international recognition and helped to establish the English Concert as a leading force in the early-music revival. This rich musical legacy continues to inspire and inform the orchestra’s work today.

The English Concert’s regular collaborations with key artistic partners reflect and enhance the pursuit of new ways to bring music to life. Joyce DiDonato, Dame Sarah Connolly, Iestyn Davies, Alison Balsom, and many others have both brought their extraordinary skills to individual projects and continue to help shape the way the ensemble performs.

A cornerstone of the orchestra’s annual cycle is its international Handel Opera tour. Blossoming from an ongoing relationship with Carnegie Hall established by Harry Bicket, the orchestra now regularly present operas and oratorios at the Theater an der Wien, Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, the Elbphilharmonie, and Barbican Hall, with the roster of great venues continuing to grow, particularly in East Asia and the United States. Meanwhile, a regular London series allows the ensemble to explore a different path, presenting programs that challenge and inspire audiences closer to home.

In 2023, the English Concert launched its ambitious Handel for All project, which aims to film and make freely available all of Handel’s works online. For more information, visit englishconcert.co.uk.