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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Nov 05 2026 – 19:30
Marios Papadopoulos conducts his first concert of the season and brings with him one of the most riveting pieces in the history of the symphony.
Learn More
Mozart, Debussy and Roussel
Nov 14 2026 – 19:30
Soloists of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra come to the Holywell Music Room for flute-led chamber music that celebrates heritage while also reflecting on loss.
Learn More
Monteverdi Vespers of 1610
Nov 21 2026 – 19:30
In the galleries of the Sheldonian Theatre, Marios Papadopoulos marshals the most majestic and timeless of sacred works.
Learn More