Academy of St Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell

The world’s finest chamber orchestra returns, led by Music Director and virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell.

The Academy of St Martin in the Fields (ASMF) is one of the world’s finest chamber orchestras, renowned for fresh, brilliant interpretations of the world’s greatest orchestral music. Formed by Sir Neville Marriner in 1958 from a group of leading London musicians, the ASMF gave its first performance in its namesake church in November 1959.

Through unrivaled live performances and a vast recording output – highlights of which include the 1969 bestseller Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and the soundtrack to the Oscar-winning film Amadeus – the orchestra has gained an enviable international reputation for its distinctive, polished, and refined sound. With over 500 releases in a much-vaunted discography and a comprehensive international touring program, the name and sound of the ASMF is known and loved by classical audiences throughout the world.

Today the orchestra is led by Music Director and virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell, retaining the collegiate spirit and flexibility of the original small, conductor-less ensemble which is an ASMF hallmark. Under Bell’s direction, and with the support of Leader/Director Tomo Keller, ASMF continues to push the boundaries of player-directed performance to new heights, presenting symphonic repertoire and chamber music on a grand scale at prestigious venues around the globe.

Program for Wednesday 4 October

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Overture to The Marriage of Figaro K.492

Ludwig van Beethoven Violin Concerto in D, Op.61

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K.550

Program for Thursday 5 October

Sergei Prokofiev Symphony No.1 in D, Op.25 ‘Classical Symphony’

Felix Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E minor, Op.64; Symphony No.3 in A minor, Op.56 ‘Scottish’