Sonic Threads: A Fever Dream

“But the remedy, which of all others bids fairest to relieve the patient is musick: As it awakes the attention in the most agreeable manner, and relieves the anxious mind…”

Reflections on ancient and modern musick with the application to the cure of diseases (Richard Brocklesby, 1749)

Join us in the candlelit Great Hall of the historic North Wing for an evening of eighteenth century music and readings. Featuring music by Handel, Purcell and their contemporaries, readings from historic medical treatises and texts created in workshops at St Bart’s Hospital.

With mezzo-soprano Joanna Harries (“emotional force” – The Times) and Ensemble Augelletti (“elegant pathos and rip-roaring technical dexterity” – The Arts Desk).

Programme includes:
Purcell Music for a while
I attempt from love’s sickness to fly
Handel Süße Stille (from Neun Deutsche Arien)
Pensieri notturne di Fille
Oh sleep, why dost thou leave me? (from Semele)
As with rosy steps (from Theodora)
Pergolesi (attrb.) Nina
Purcell Two in One Upon a Ground (from Dioclesian)
Music from The Fairy Queen