English Sinfonia is one of the earliest established chamber orchestras in the UK, well-known for their engaging interpretations of British music.
Under the leadership of distinguished violinist Janice Graham, today’s orchestra is a versatile and flexible ensemble, formed of a core group of well-established players each at the height of their career, who as individuals perform music of many genres in a variety of settings, from symphonic and chamber music, opera and ballet to commercial music and film/tv soundtracks. Spanning almost six decades, the orchestra’s discography is rich in 19th and 20th century music, including both familiar and lesser-known works by Holst, Butterworth, Vaughan Williams and Bridge.
With its 60th anniversary on the horizon and Chris Hopkins as its newly appointed Principal Conductor, English Sinfonia continues its commitment to explore, discover and bring to life the musical landscape of the British Isles. With a fresh focus on innovative programming and championing new and unduly neglected works, the orchestra will deliver live and recorded performances all to the exceptional musical standards it is known for.
“With a musician like Graham at its helm, it’s no wonder the English Sinfonia has earned such a prominent place on the international music scene.”
Next Concert -
‘Mozart in the Chilterns’
Elgiva Theatre - Sunday 28th April 7.30pm
Join English Sinfonia in chamber form for a delightful programme which includes two of Mozart’s most well-loved concertos in arrangement for string quintet and soloists: his rambunctious Violin Concerto no. 5 and beautiful Piano Concerto no. 23.
Featuring:
Janice Graham, violin
Chris Hopkins, piano
For tickets: Elgiva or 01494 582 900
‘Safe in Sound’
English Sinfonia is delighted to be working with Chiltern Music Therapy on ‘Safe in Sound’, a project designed to provide vital support to individuals living with dementia and their carers in Chesham and the surrounding area. This pioneering initiative, led by expert music therapists from Chiltern Music Therapy, in partnership with professional musicians from English Sinfonia, offers a transformative series of group music therapy sessions aimed at enhancing communication, fostering relationships, and ultimately improving the overall quality of life through the universal language of music. Over 12 weeks, participants (including carers) will enjoy music therapy sessions, culminating in a community performance at The Elgiva.
Dame Judi Dench, Patron
“I am delighted to be a patron of English Sinfonia and whole-heartedly support their commitment to bringing to life the musical landscape of the British Isles. Their innovative programmes enable us all to discover and enjoy new and neglected music alongside established classics.“
Our residency at the Elgiva Theatre in Chesham will continue with a new programme of events for 2024: see What’s On
Janice Graham, Leader and Artistic Director writes:
‘l am delighted that English Sinfonia will be joining the Elgiva as their resident orchestra. We look forward to a rewarding artistic partnership and can’t wait to be engaging and performing for live audiences.’
Chris Hopkins, Principal Conductor writes:
‘I’m really excited to be returning to the Elgiva Theatre with English Sinfonia with this series of concerts signalling the start of a new residency. After such a difficult year for performers and audiences alike, these concerts will not only hold a special significance for us, but they also herald the beginning of what we hope to be more wide-ranging activities in the local community, supported by this new collaboration.’
For more information go to The Elgiva’s website here:
https://elgiva.com/news/english-sinfonia-announces-elgiva-residency/
‘English Miniatures’
from St John’s, Smith Square
Watch our concert recorded live in St John’s Smith Square:
Janice Graham, Leader and Artistic Director
Janice Graham has been the Leader of English Sinfonia since 1995 and was appointed Artistic Director in 2005. Janice studied at the Purcell School and at GSMD with David Takeno. She was the Gold medal winner of the LSO/Shell competition, won the string prize of the Royal Overseas League Competition and was awarded English Speaking Union and Julius Iserlis scholarships to study at Juilliard with Glenn Dicterow.
As Assistant Leader of the London Symphony Orchestra she took part in their Barbican chamber series appearing with Andre Previn and Yuri Bashmet. She has also appeared as guest leader of most of the UK’s orchestras. Her solo recordings include Dochnanyi’s second violin concerto (ASV) Delius first and second violin sonatas and Walton sonata (EMI) and Holst Song of the Night and double violin concerto (Naxos) She was a professor at the RCM from 1995-2010 and is currently a professor at the GSMD and a Governor of the Purcell School. See full biography
“The rich string sound that belies its size inspired by no less a leader than Janice Graham”
Chris Hopkins, Principal Conductor
Equally at home on the concert stage as in the pit, conductor and pianist Chris Hopkins is engaged on a wide range of projects across many disciplines. Recently appointed principal conductor of the renowned English Sinfonia, he is also a frequent face at the London Coliseum: following from the success of his ENO debut conducting Iolanthe, he has since returned to conduct the Magic Flute and last year for the most recent revival of the legendary production of The Mikado. Previously he has recorded with the English Chamber Orchestra, worked at the Royal Opera House and Glyndebourne Opera, with Opera de Paris, Grange Festival Opera, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Crash Ensemble, WNO, NI Opera, HGO, Opera Holland Park, Wide Open Opera, Garsington Opera, Grange Park Opera, Opera Danube, London Mozart Players, and appeared at many festivals including Aldeburgh, Presteigne, and Latitude. He has performed throughout the UK, in the US, Asia and extensively in Europe as well as live and recorded appearances on BBC 1, Classic FM and BBC Radio 2, 3 and 4. See full biography
“The Mikado faultlessly conducted by the excellent Chris Hopkins”