A unique concert will take place at the magnificent Durham Cathedral on the 8th of August!

Join us for an evening featuring the famous Antonio Vivaldi cycle «The Four Seasons» in the unique interpretation of contemporary composer Max Richter, performed by the extraordinary Mystery Ensemble.

Max Richter is the composer of music for dozens of feature films and documentaries. The European Film Academy voted him the best film composer in 2008. He adapted Antonio Vivaldi's music in the spirit of minimalism and postmodernism. Recomposed by Max Richter: Vivaldi, The Four Seasons is one of Richter’s most famous works. After its release in 2012, the recording topped the iTunes Classical Music charts in over 20 countries.

Max Richter has recorded 12 solo albums and performed at the London Barbican, the Paris Philharmonic, the Sydney Opera and the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, and among his projects are the Sum Opera and the Infra ballet (choreographed by Wayne MacGregor) at Covent Garden. Richter’s music is heard in many performances around the world, as well as in the films «Shutter Island» by Martin Scorsese, «Last Love on Earth» by David Mackenzie, and «Waltz with Bashir», for the soundtrack to which he received the award «Best Composer» from the European Film Academy.

The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi is one of the most famous and frequently performed works of classical music. The Italian master wittily and gracefully captured in music the way his contemporaries saw the world and nature. The Vivaldi cycle is both a philosophical reflection on a magnificent illustrated «calendar» and a «sightseeing tour» of Italy.
Duration: 60 minutes.
Doors open at least 30 minutes before the concert.
Out of respect for guests and performers, late entry may not be permitted. We cannot guarantee your original seats after the concert begins.
Age restriction: 6+

PERFORMERS
🎻 Mystery Ensemble
Mystery Ensemble is a group of professional musicians performing unique programs in non-standard venues around Great Britain, Europe and other countries.

Experience outstanding works from different eras, experimental music, tributes, and world soundtracks of films and series, as well as unique programs and immersive shows. All music is presented in the author’s arrangements. With the possibility of independent program selection, unexpected locations, and flexible format, our team of professional musicians is inspired to bring their favourite music to life.

Founded in 2021, our contemporary music studio has grown rapidly, performing over 40 shows in the UK in its first year. Our founder, Almin Alexander, has devoted more than 12 years to the music industry and the development of cultural initiatives worldwide, working with many outstanding musicians and musical groups.

The ensemble’s repertoire is incredible. Just look at some of the programs so dearly loved by our viewers: these are tribute concerts of such great composers as Ludovico Einaudi, Hans Zimmer, John Williams, Ólafur Arnalds, Joe Hisaishi, or the minimalists’ John Cage and David Lang, along with At the same time, the ensemble performs popular soundtracks from sensational TV shows and movies: Wednesday, The Young Pope, Harry Potter, a variety of Disney and Pixar films, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit saga, Spencer, Star Wars and others.

There is also the unique music of Enigma and Enya, combined with neoclassical music or world-rock hits, and tributes to the legendary Michael Jackson, Queen, and the Beatles. For lovers of the classics, the ensemble collection includes music by W.A. Mozart, J.S. Bach, L.V. Beethoven, R. Wagner, I. Strauss, P.I. Tchaikovsky, S.V. Rachmaninov, and other key composers. And much more. Every month, the studio releases new programs and updates the existing repertoire.
For some projects, the team gathers as part of a chamber or small symphony orchestra.

Join us and experience the creative energy and passion that drives our team to bring music to life in unforgettable ways!

Programme
Max Richter — On the Nature of Daylight
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Spring
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Summer
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Autumn
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Winter
*Please note that the programme is subject to changes

Description

Durham Cathedral stands as a profound national asset, deeply woven into the cultural and spiritual fabric of the North East. It serves as a significant hub for a diverse array of events, drawing attendees and participants from across the UK and beyond, extending its influence far beyond its primary role as a place of worship.

The vast Norman architecture, with its towering sandstone pillars and intricate rib-vaulted ceilings, immediately commands a sense of reverence. The air within carries a faint, cool scent of ancient stone and polished wood, often accompanied by the resonant echoes of footsteps or the distant, rich timbre of the organ. Natural light filters through the high windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the shafts of sun, lending a serene, contemplative quality to the expansive interior.

The surrounding precinct, known as The College, provides a tranquil environment with historic buildings and green spaces. Accessibility is a priority, with ramps and lifts ensuring most areas, including the main entrance, museum, cafe, and shop, are navigable, though some older sections retain their original uneven floors. Accessible toilets are available, and an Undercroft Restaurant and cafe offer refreshments.

Throughout the year, the cathedral hosts a varied programme of public events, encompassing classical music concerts, choral performances, art exhibitions, and educational workshops. It also facilitates community gatherings, lectures, and seasonal celebrations, ensuring a dynamic calendar that appeals to a wide audience.