Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment is recognised as one of the world's foremost period instrument ensembles. Formed in 1986 as a self-governing orchestra, the OAE has always maintained a player-led approach to artistic planning and programming, working with a range of distinguished guest conductors and in 1992, Sir Simon Rattle and Frans Brüggen were appointed Principal Guest Conductors. In 1997 the work of the London Classical Players was absorbed by the OAE, and Sir Roger Norrington joined the roster of conductors. The Orchestra, as an Associate of London's Royal Festival Hall, gratefully acknowledges the financial support that SBC gives the Orchestra through its association with the Hall.

In addition to its relationship with the Royal Festival Hall, the Orchestra has been resident at St George's, Bristol since 1995 and enjoys regular collaborations with Symphony Hall in Birmingham, Cité de la Musique in Paris and the Lincoln Center in New York. Other regular appearances include Glyndebourne, the BBC Proms and other major festivals in the UK and abroad. The OAE's commitment to combining period authenticity with contemporary values has engendered numerous memorable performances ranging from Rameau's ‘Les Boreades' at the Salzburg Festival to Tchaikovsky weekends in London, Paris and Birmingham.