Celebrating Wren and his church: Tercentenary festival at St Stephen's Walbrook

St Stephen Walbrook

Architect and polymath,  Sir Christopher Wren died 300 years ago this year. In addition to the various celebrations of Wren's achievements, architectural and otherwise, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE) is joining forces with St Stephen Walbrook to present a festival of music commemorating Wren, who designed the church following the Great Fire of London in 1666. The three concerts aim to provide a snapshot of musical life at the time of Wren's death. 

A recital of music by Purcell interspersed with atmospheric readings from the period will evoke the time when Wren rebuilt the city following the Great Fire whilst Purcell composed the music for its reviving theatre scene and newly opulent church and royal court. Vivaldi’s cycle of four violin concertos, The Four Seasons, is believed to have been completed in 1723, the year of Sir Christopher Wren’s death, and will be played by Debretzeni, one of the OAE’s leaders. Then the OAE presents one of their signature Baroquebusters concerts. From fellow Londoner Handel to Bach, Albinoni and Pachelbel, this engaging and interactive concert of much-loved Baroque favourites will offer a snapshot of musical life at the end of Wren’s life, exploring why these works are all so popular today. There will be an opportunity for the audience to meet the players and learn about their historical instruments.

2023 marks not only the 300th anniversary of Wren's death, but the 350th anniversary of St Stephen's Walbrook, and the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Samaritans at the church, so there are lots more anniversary events planned. Full details from St Stephen Wallbrook's website.