Just over two decades ago, a group of London musicians took a good look at that curious institution we call the Orchestra, and decided to start again from scratch. They began by throwing out the rulebook. Put a single conductor in charge? No way. Specialise in repertoire of a particular era? Too restricting. Perfect a work and then move on? Too lazy. The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment was born.
Since then, the OAE has shocked, changed and mesmerised the music world. Residencies at the Southbank Centre and Glyndebourne haven’t numbed its experimentalist bent. Record deals haven’t ironed out its quirks. Period-specific instruments have become just one element of its quest for authenticity.
Today the OAE is cherished more than ever. It still pushes for change, and still stands for excellence, diversity and exploration. And over two decades on, there’s still no orchestra in the world quite like it.
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We've just launched a new podcast which is available to listen to on our blog! (featuring a chat with Sir Mark Elder CBE)
New 2009-2010 Season now on sale!
We thought you'd like to know that our new season of concerts at Southbank Centre is on public sale. For more details and information on how to book, please visit the Southbank Centre website or download a flyer at the OAE website.
We're now on Twitter- find us by searching for 'theoae'!
We are now on Windows Messenger, so you can talk live to a member of staff if you need help booking a concert, want more information on a piece of music or if you want to give us feedback. Our address is ask_OAE@hotmail.com.
Add us as a contact and we will try to answer all your questions!
Was at the Nightshift last night, absolutely wonderful, the Orchestra seemed really up for it, will defintely be looking to see more of this amazing Orchestra, and it certaintly did not look like there was any one suffering from jet lag.
