The Curious Bards
Henry Purcell: Rebellion

Beyond the celebrated composer of opera lies a musician deeply inspired by the dances and songs of his time. Theatre music sits alongside lively hornpipes, jigs, and traditional Scottish and Irish tunes, revealing a Purcell who is vibrant and theatrical.
Joined by guest mezzo-soprano Ilektra Platiopoulou, this programme offers a fresh and intimate portrait of the composer, one whose genius is rooted in the living energy of people.
Performed in the round, you’ll be up close to the musicians as the music of Purcell refracts into songs, dances, and playful rounds.
Programme:
Henry Purcell Symphony While The Swans Come Forward
Sawney Is a Bonny Lad
Suite de 3 Hornpipes
The Double Dealer
Sophonisba
Sefauchi's Farewell
They tell us that you mighty powers above
The Married Beau
The Virtuous Wife
A New Scotch Tune / A New Irish Tune
Bacchus Is a Power Divine
Apollo's Banquet
Not All My Torments Can Your Pity Move
Oh! How You Protest
London Festival of Baroque Music
Tue, 27 October 2026
Smith Square Hall, London
9:00pm
£15
Full Event Details
The Curious Bards explores one of England’s greatest musical voices, Henry Purcell.
Beyond the celebrated composer of opera lies a musician deeply inspired by the dances and songs of his time. Theatre music sits alongside lively hornpipes, jigs, and traditional Scottish and Irish tunes, revealing a Purcell who is vibrant and theatrical.
Joined by guest mezzo-soprano Ilektra Platiopoulou, this programme offers a fresh and intimate portrait of the composer, one whose genius is rooted in the living energy of people.
Performed in the round, you’ll be up close to the musicians as the music of Purcell refracts into songs, dances, and playful rounds.
Programme:
Henry Purcell Symphony While The Swans Come Forward
Sawney Is a Bonny Lad
Suite de 3 Hornpipes
The Double Dealer
Sophonisba
Sefauchi's Farewell
They tell us that you mighty powers above
The Married Beau
The Virtuous Wife
A New Scotch Tune / A New Irish Tune
Bacchus Is a Power Divine
Apollo's Banquet
Not All My Torments Can Your Pity Move
Oh! How You Protest
Venue Details & Map
Location
Smith Square Hall, London
Sinfonia Smith Square, London SW1P 3HA
Related upcoming events

Bach Orchestral Suites
Concerto Copenhagen | Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Sat, 24 October 2026
Smith Square Hall, London
7:30pm
£25 - £45
London Festival of Baroque Music

Stylus Phantasticus
Concerto Copenhagen | Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Sun, 25 October 2026
Smith Square Hall, London
2:00pm
£15
London Festival of Baroque Music

A Renaissance Roadtrip
Stile Antico
Sun, 25 October 2026
Smith Square Hall, London
7:00pm
£25 - £45
London Festival of Baroque Music
