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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11 Apr 2024 – 19:30
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20 Apr 2024 – 19:30
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Learn MoreFauré and Rutter Requiems
Mar 28 2024 – 19:30
John Rutter leads the Orchestra and the Choir of Merton College for Fauré’s masterpiece of understatement, along with his own setting of the Latin Requiem.
Learn MoreMozart Requiem
Apr 11 2024 – 19:30
Marios Papadopoulos conducts the Requiem that needs no contextual intrigue to heighten its drama and poignancy.
Learn MoreJames Ehnes Plays Schumann
Apr 20 2024 – 19:30
Marios Papadopoulos conducts Schumann’s propulsive third symphony, after James Ehnes plays the composer’s intricate Violin Concerto.
Learn More