About Britten sinfonia
Britten Sinfonia: A Pioneering Chamber Orchestra
Britten Sinfonia is a chamber orchestra that has been making waves in the classical music scene for over 25 years. Founded in 1992, the orchestra has gained a reputation for its innovative programming, exceptional musicianship, and versatility.
The orchestra takes its name from one of Britain's most celebrated composers, Benjamin Britten. Britten was known for his pioneering spirit and his desire to push boundaries in classical music. The orchestra aims to continue this legacy by exploring new musical territories and collaborating with artists from different genres.
One of the things that sets Britten Sinfonia apart from other orchestras is its size. The ensemble consists of just 18 core members, which allows for greater flexibility and intimacy in their performances. This smaller size also means that each musician plays a more significant role in shaping the overall sound of the ensemble.
Britten Sinfonia's repertoire spans a wide range of styles and periods, from Baroque to contemporary music. They are particularly known for their performances of works by living composers such as Thomas Adès, Harrison Birtwistle, and James MacMillan.
In addition to their regular concert series at venues across the UK (including London's Barbican Centre), Britten Sinfonia also collaborates with other arts organizations on special projects. For example, they have worked with dance companies such as Rambert and Wayne McGregor | Random Dance on productions that combine live music with choreography.
Another area where Britten Sinfonia excels is education and outreach work. They run a variety of programs aimed at introducing young people to classical music and encouraging them to get involved in playing instruments themselves. These include workshops, masterclasses, concerts specifically designed for families with young children.
Overall, Britten Sinfonia is an exciting ensemble that continues to push boundaries in classical music while maintaining high standards of musicianship. Their innovative programming and collaborations with other artists make them a must-see for anyone interested in the future of classical music.