Joyce DiDonato, Nicola Benedetti and Allan Clayton among world-class performers at Saffron Hall in March
Saffron Hall has a captivating line-up of classical, jazz and folk performances from some world-class artists in March.
From stirring symphonies to intimate jazz sessions, the diverse array of concerts promises to enchant audiences of all tastes.
On Sunday March 3 (4pm), Paul Lewis presents a selection of Franz Schubert sonatas showcasing the composer’s sunnier side, from ebullient conclusions to folksy dances, culminating in the wonderfully tranquil late G major sonata.
The Dan Forshaw Quartet perform a Foyer Jazz session on Friday March 8 (8pm). Expect New Orleans-inspired sounds, Wayne Shorter influences and the earworms of Sonny Rollins, paired with street food by Kura Kura.
Tenor Allan Clayton is performing Schubert’s epic pilgrimage of the soul, Winterreise, with the Aurora Orchestra on Saturday March 9 (7.30pm). Conveyed through 24 exquisite songs with piano accompaniment, it is the pinnacle of the German Lieder tradition.
On Wednesday March 13 (7.30pm), the Philharmonia and Nicola Benedetti are putting on a concert featuring music by Louise Farrenc, Max Bruch and Beethoven’s ever-popular and revolutionary Symphony No. 5. The show will celebrate star violinist Benedetti’s bond with the Saffron Walden venue.
The Foyer Folk session on Friday March 15 (8pm) features Christina Alden and Alex Patterson, whose music is rich with intertwining harmony, sensitive musicianship and a song-writing style that is both delicate and moving. Street food will be provided by Azahar.
On Saturday March 16 (7.30pm), Saffron Walden Choral Society presents a concert celebrating the human capacity to find peace through music and nature. As well as exploring English choral music with Vaughan Williams’ Five Mystical Songs and Cecilia McDowall’s Da Vinci Requiem, the performance also features compositions by Will Todd and Jonathan Dove.
The great American mezzo Joyce DiDonato returns to Saffron Hall on Sunday March 17 (4pm) in a song recital with a twist. Accompanied by a five-piece jazz ensemble, she brings together world-class musicians from the varied worlds of classical, jazz and tango in the pure pleasure of improvisation, experimentation and exchange.
Six multi-talented, musically diverse artists come together to celebrate the music of Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist John Martyn on Saturday March 23 (8pm). Each brings their own story and connection to Martyn’s music as they perform some of his classic tracks as well as turning over some lesser-thumbed pages of his back catalogue.
The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment perform Bach’s Easter Oratorio on Sunday March 24 (4pm). It is preceded by two other Easter Monday cantatas, a characteristic mix of spirited celebration and moments of stasis and personal reflection.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.saffronhall.com/whats-on or call the box office on 0845 548 7650.
