Recomposed by Max Richter: Vivaldi, The Four Seasons

A unique concert will take place at the cosy Holywell Music Room on the 23rd of May.

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 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.

About venue

Holywell Music Room is one of Europe’s most historic and distinguished concert halls, located in the heart of Oxford. Opened in 1748, it is the oldest purpose-built music room in Europe still in regular use — a space that has welcomed centuries of musicians, scholars, and audiences.

The Hall’s elegant Georgian architecture, refined proportions, and beautifully restored interior create an atmosphere of intimacy and grace. Soft natural light, classical detailing, and a finely balanced acoustic make the space uniquely suited to chamber music, vocal recitals, and historically informed performances.

Renowned for its clarity and warmth of sound, Holywell Music Room offers an exceptional listening experience where every nuance can be heard with precision and depth. Its relatively compact capacity ensures a close connection between performer and audience, preserving the spirit of 18th-century salon concerts while supporting contemporary artistic excellence.

In the scholarly and cultural heart of Oxford, Holywell Music Room stands as a testament to the enduring power of live performance — a venue where history, intellect, and music converge in perfect harmony.

Performers 

Mystery Ensemble

Mystery Ensemble is a group of professional musicians performing unique programs in non-standard venues around the UK.

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, unexpected locations, and the flexibility of the 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, with over 40 shows in the UK in its first year of performing. 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

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