The Creation
The Creation
Christopher Wood God Save the King: An Anthem written to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles
Haydn The Creation
Mhairi Lawson soprano
Thomas Elwin tenor
Jonathan Brown bass
The Choir of Merton College
Benjamin Nicholas conductor
In 1791, Joseph Haydn was overwhelmed by a performance of Handel’s Messiah in London. As he prepared to return home, Haydn was slipped a libretto on the subject of the creation of the universe originally conceived for Handel. When The Creation was first performed seven years later, Haydn was overcome yet again - this time by his own achievements. In representing chaos and the creation of light, the oratorio’s elemental inspiration transcends the boundaries of its era. In the building where Haydn received his Oxford doctorate, we are joined by soloists and the Choir of Merton College for Haydn’s most inspired ‘creation’.
The Sheldonian Theatre is a unique space to experience live music. To see an interactive map of the theatre click here.
29 Apr 2023
Tickets: £15, £28, £38, £48
(Students from £5)
Duration: 140 min
Venue: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street
(Students from £5)
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18 Jul 2025 – 19:30
Join the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra for an enchanting evening of Baroque brilliance, featuring iconic works that highlight the era’s expressive beauty.
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Fire and Water, By Candlelight
Jul 11 2025 – 19:30
Experience the sounds of Baroque in a concert in London featuring Handel’s lively Water Music and the grand Music from the Royal Fireworks performed by the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Learn More
Fire and Water
Jul 12 2025 – 19:30
Experience the sounds of Baroque in a concert featuring Handel’s lively Water Music and the grand Music from the Royal Fireworks performed by the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Learn More
Vivaldi’s Venice
Jul 18 2025 – 19:30
Join the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra for an enchanting evening of Baroque brilliance, featuring iconic works that highlight the era’s expressive beauty.
Learn More