William Lawes’ large collection of pieces composed ‘for the harpe, base violl, violin, and theorbo’ is unique in English consort music repertory in that each has a harp accompaniment part. Containing some of Lawes’s finest compositional writing for virtuoso violin and viol, with theorbo continuo, these consorts are now performed using a gut strung, Italian triple harp instead of the brass wire strung Irish harp that scholarship indicates was the more plausible instrument.
Instruments of Time and Truth present a premiere modern performance using not only an early Irish harp but also a unique, 17th century manuscript from the Christ Church Library as one of their sources for this glorious music that would have been heard in the rapidly disintegrating court of King Charles I.
This concert is part of the Instruments of Time and Truth Summer Concert Series 2023, and is generously supported by John Osborn.
Instruments of Time and Truth are Oxford’s own period instrument orchestra, presenting world class performances of baroque and classical music in Oxford and around the UK.
Free tickets are available for audience members under 26 thanks to the support of the Cavatina Chamber Music Foundation.
Discover a world of music and enjoy all 6 of Instruments of Time and Truth's Summer Concerts at Christ Church for a reduced price with a series season ticket available from Tickets Oxford until 3rd July here