Name: Fairest Isle
Start: 2026-11-29T12:00:00
Location: Royal Academy of Music

This year, the Royal Academy of Music is transforming into a hub of historical resonance and musical brilliance as it celebrates the works of renowned composer Henry Purcell. From groundbreaking operatic productions and revelatory recitals to a showcase of budding talent, the events are set to captivate audiences with an exploration of Purcell's impact on music, rife with creativity and emotion. Join us as we delve into a series of events that not only pay homage to Purcell but also highlight the evolution of music through the ages.

Celebrating the Legacy of Henry Purcell: A Year of Musical Triumphs

Laurence Cummings

Royal Academy of Music

Purcell lived in a world shaped by the English Civil War, where tales of rebellion against rulers captivated audiences. His suite for Aphra Behn’s play Abdelazer accompanied one such story.

Music for Rebels and Royalty

IYMC Showcase Recital features talent from around the world as part of the global outreach program by Independent Youth Music Competitions.

IYMC Showcase Recital

Royal Academy Of Music

Henry Purcell’s gift for setting English words to music shines in the moving and emotional anthem ‘Let mine eyes run down with tears’. In contrast, the powerful ‘Jehova, quam multi sunt hostes mei’, a Latin psalm setting, features a bold bass solo, probably written for a favoured singer at the court of Charles II, John Gostling.

And Again I Say, Rejoice

Henry Purcell’s sacred works are paired with ones by his predecessors, offering a rich portrait of church music in transition. Purcell crafted music for Anglican liturgy that, though less elaborate than his symphony anthems, is no less dazzling.

Here The Deities Approve

Sir Walter Raleigh’s poem is the inspiration for this anniversary programme featuring the music of two great composers who died within a year of each other: Orlando Gibbons and John Dowland. The infectious joy of Gibbons’ counterpoint is perfectly matched by Dowland’s forthright and eloquent writing of solo ayres and part-songs. Extracts from Dowland’s monumental collection Lachrimae, or Seven Teares complete the programme.

A Play Of Passion

Purcell’s enchanting King Arthur is a semi-opera on a grand scale, following pagan Saxons, victorious Britons and flirtatious nymphs and shepherds, with scenes ranging from frozen terrains to lively woodlands.

Fairest Isle

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