The critically acclaimed Oxfordshire early music trio Musical Banquet will be returning to Scotland and making a first visit to St Giles’ Cathedral in the heart of the city of Edinburgh’s Old Town at 6pm on Sunday 8th July 2018 to perform a concert in the St Giles’s at Six series. Step back in time 400 years to hear the group serve up a delectable menu of musical delicacies including vocal and instrumental works by Dowland, Campion and Purcell, along with some of their contemporaries, interspersed with colourful period anecdotes.
With its famed hollow-crown tower a prominent feature of the city skyline, St Giles’ Cathedral stands on the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Dating back to the late C14 and dedicated to Edinburgh’s patron saint today St Giles’s is still called a Cathedral though it is considered the mother church of Presbyterianism, known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh. At the height of the Scottish Reformation the Protestant leader and firebrand John Knox was chosen minister at St Giles and is buried in the kirkyard.
At the south-east corner of the church stands the small but exquisite Thistle Chapel with carved and painted fittings of extraordinary detail. This order of chivalry, considered to be one of the country’s highest honours, was founded by King James VII in 1687 and consists of the Scottish Monarch and 16 knights. The Order is traditionally given to Scots who have given distinguished service and appointments are entirely in the personal gift of the Sovereign. The Heart of the Midlothian is represented by a heart-shaped mosaic, placed next to the western door of the cathedral, and visitors traditionally spit on the mosaic for good luck. This practice is now discouraged!
This historic building makes a fine backdrop for tonight’s unusual and highly entertaining opportunity to experience works performed on period instruments combined with countertenor voice much as the 17th and 18th century audience might have heard them. An eclectic selection of music will include some 'sweet treats' from one of England’s finest composers, Henry Purcell and the gourmet ‘menu’ includes a special tribute to the Scottish poet and songwriter Robert Burns. With plenty of surprises along the way, the evening will be presented in the trio’s characteristically lively, entertaining and imaginative style. A tempting indulgence for all musical gastronomes!
There is no charge for admission and a retiring collection will be made in aid of Cathedral Funds.
Musical Banquet's vibrant and energetic performances have delighted critics and audiences alike:
‘The effect of such entrancing music was quite magical’ ‘Beautifully presented with wit, polish and panache’ ‘A musical marvel!’ ‘The audience were spellbound’ 'Such enthusiastic and passionate performers' ‘An unforgettable evening!’ 'It was a real treat to listen to early English and European music performed to such a high standard’ 'The intimate weaving of music with witty and entertaining repartee, made for a relaxed yet inspiring experience‘ 'Thank you for another great show. You remain unique and indefatigable (and very digestible!’)’
Come along and experience for yourself this 'Feast for the Ears'!