Classical Music and Opera in London

Looking for something to do in London? Why not check out some classical music or opera? Here are some of the best venues to enjoy these art forms in the city.

Introduction

London is one of the great music capitals of the world and has a long and rich tradition of classical music. From the world-famous orchestras and choirs at the Barbican and Royal Festival Hall, to intimate recitals in churches and smaller concert halls, there is something for everyone.

Opera fans are also spoilt for choice, with regular performances at world-class venues such as the Royal Opera House, Glyndebourne Festival Opera, and English National Opera.

A Brief History of Classical Music and Opera in London

Classical music and opera have been an important part of London’s cultural scene for centuries. In the early days, musical performances were often held in private homes or at court. But by the 17th century, public concerts were becoming increasingly popular. The first purpose-built concert hall in London opened in 1711. It was called Lincoln’s Inn Fields Music Hall, and it quickly became one of the city’s most popular venues.

In the 18th century, London became home to a number of world-famous orchestras and opera companies. The London Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1904, and the Royal Opera House opened its doors in 1858. Today, both of these institutions are still thriving.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a huge boom in the popularity of classical music and opera in London. Numerous new concert halls and opera houses were built, and ticket sales soared. This golden age came to an abrupt end with the outbreak of World War II in 1939. Many of London’s concert halls and opera houses were damaged or destroyed during the Blitz, and many musicians left the city to pursue their careers elsewhere.

Despite this setback, classical music and opera have continued to play an important role in London’s cultural life. In recent years, a number of new concert halls and opera houses have been built, and audiences are once again flocking to see live performances.

The Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House (ROH) is an opera house and major performing arts venue in Covent Garden, central London. The large building is often referred to as simply “Covent Garden”, after a previous use of the site of the operatic performances by the Dukes of Ormonde. It is the home of The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet, and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House. Originally called the Theatre Royal, it served primarily as a playhouse for the first hundred years of its history. In 1734, the first ballet was presented. A place for operatic performances in London was not built until 1732, when theatre manager John Rich commissioned The Beggar’s Opera from John Gay. In September 1857 Charles Carlisle’s English opera version of Faust became the first work performed at Sadler’s Wells Theatre (considered another “royal” theatre).

The English National Opera

The English National Opera (ENO) is a world-renowned opera company based in London. It was founded in 1931 by Dame Lilian Baylis and over the past few decades has built a reputation for producing excellent opera performances. The ENO also has a strong commitment to new opera, commissionsing and producing several new works each year.

If you’re interested in seeing some classical music or opera while you’re in London, the ENO is definitely worth checking out. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office, and discounts are often available for students and seniors.

The Glyndebourne Festival

The Glyndebourne Festival is an annual international music festival held at Glyndebourne, a country house near Lewes in East Sussex, England. The main features of the festival are operas by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Richard Strauss, Claude Debussy and Giacomo Puccini. In addition to these, there are also ballets, concerts and recitals. The Glyndebourne Festival Orchestra is also a regular feature of the festival.

The Barbican Centre

The Barbican Centre is a performing arts centre in the City of London and the largest of its kind in Europe. The Centre hosts classical and contemporary music concerts, theatre productions, film screenings and art exhibitions. It is also home to the London Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

The Centre was built on the site of a former Roman fort and is named after the area’s main street, Barbican Avenue. It was opened to the public in 1982 and has since become one of London’s most popular tourist attractions.

The Barbican Centre is located in the heart of the City of London, near St Paul’s Cathedral and just a short walk from Liverpool Street station.

Conclusion

In conclusion, London is a city with a rich history of classical music and opera. There are many different venues to see these performances, ranging from the large opera houses to the smaller, more intimate theatres. Whatever your taste in music, you are sure to find something to suit your needs in London.