ned bigham 60th birthday concert with the london conchord ensemble

One of Europe’s leading chamber ensembles, the London Conchord Ensemble, helps the Festival celebrate the 60th birthday of composer Ned Bigham - known locally to many as Ned Mersey. In addition to a specially commissioned nonet that thematically reflects on the local West Sussex countryside and environment, The South Downs Suite, the crack ensemble of top musicians have crafted an exquisite programme of English music paired with one of the high-points of 20th century chamber music, Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro - “ten minutes of pure musical bliss” in the words of Artistic Director Stewart Collins.

An old friend of the Festival, The London Conchord Ensemble has recorded much of its extensive discography in the wonderful recording environment that is Champs Hill’s Music Room.

PROGRAMME

Vaughan Williams - Fantasia on Greensleeves

Ravel - Introduction and Allegro

Ned Bigham - The South Downs Suite (60th birthday commission)

Finzi -  Interlude for Oboe and String Quartet Op. 21

Elgar - Quintet in A minor for Piano and String Quartet, Op. 84