✨ А unique concert will take place on the 9th of September at the striking Guildford Cathedral, which stands proudly above Guildford on Stag Hill.

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 reinterpreted 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 minutesDoors 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 the UK, Europe and beyond.

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

Founded in 2021, our contemporary music studio has grown rapidly, with 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, 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

Guildford Cathedral, perched on Stag Hill, serves as the mother church for the Diocese of Guildford, encompassing a significant swathe of Surrey and beyond. Beyond its ecclesiastical duties, it functions as a prominent regional hub for cultural and community events, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. Its modern design, consecrated in 1961, marks it as a unique and cherished part of the national heritage, being the last Church of England cathedral built on a new site.

The interior of the Cathedral offers an immediate sense of expansive calm, with pale Somerset limestone pillars rising towards a high ceiling and white Italian marble floors reflecting the abundant natural light. The air often carries a subtle, cool scent of stone and aged wood, contributing to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. The uncluttered design provides a serene backdrop, allowing for a focus on the interplay of light and shadow throughout the day.

The Cathedral is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair access via a ramp at the West entrance and a lift at the North East Porch, alongside accessible toilets and dedicated parking. Visitors can explore the unique Children's Garden, featuring four seasonal areas, a bronze sculpture, and a labyrinth. The Seasons Café & Kitchen provides refreshments, from light meals to cream teas, while the Cathedral Shop offers a selection of souvenirs and gifts.

Throughout the year, Guildford Cathedral hosts a diverse programme of events, extending beyond its regular worship. This includes various musical performances, art exhibitions that benefit from the airy interior, and educational workshops. The flexible spaces also accommodate private events and community gatherings, reinforcing its role as a dynamic centre for engagement and cultural enrichment.