Serenade for Strings
Serenade for Strings
There can be no better evidence that Francis Poulenc was the ‘half monk, half rascal’ of reputation than the composer’s wickedly disciplined Organ Concerto, a knockabout game of chase and tag for orchestra and organ that one moment plays havoc with Bach and another finds deep spirituality. Former Christ Church Oxford organist Stephen Darlington joins the Orchestra and conductor John Lubbock for Poulenc’s piquant concerto – first on the Metzler organ of the University Church, then on the mighty Walker organ of St Martin-in-the-Fields – surrounded by music of bustling charm by Mozart and a melodious serenade from Tchaikovsky that ‘poured from the heart’ of the composer.
14 Jul 2023
Tickets: £15, £22, £28, £38
(Students from £5)
Duration: 120 min
Venue: University Church of St Mary the Virgin, High Street
(Students from £5)
Upcoming events
View All EventsHandel Messiah
11 Dec 2025 – 19:00
Join Marios Papadopoulos and the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir for a Yuletide celebration of celestial joy and human togetherness.
Learn MoreA Viennese New Year
04 Jan 2026 – 16:30
Prepare to party like its 1899 as the Oxford Philharmonic brings in the New Year with the stirring marches, pointed polkas and elegant waltzes of Austrian tradition.
Learn MoreChamber Music at Merton
18 Jan 2026 – 15:00
A captivating programme unfolds with the soloists of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, showcasing a rich blend of Czech and French musical traditions.
Learn MoreHandel Messiah
Dec 11 2025 – 19:00
Join Marios Papadopoulos and the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir for a Yuletide celebration of celestial joy and human togetherness.
Learn MoreA Viennese New Year
Jan 04 2026 – 16:30
Prepare to party like its 1899 as the Oxford Philharmonic brings in the New Year with the stirring marches, pointed polkas and elegant waltzes of Austrian tradition.
Learn MoreChamber Music at Merton
Jan 18 2026 – 15:00
A captivating programme unfolds with the soloists of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, showcasing a rich blend of Czech and French musical traditions.
Learn More