Guide to Music in Oxford

in OxfordYour guide to

making,hearing

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music in Oxford

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It’s a real indicator of the strength of the Oxford music scene that we couldn’t fit everything

into this booklet. Don’t think this list is all there is! If you’d like more information then web

sites like www.oxfordbands.com and www.dailyinfo.co.uk are a good place to start.

Also try the free and excellent Nightshift magazine (pick a copy up in all good record shops

and venues) and the monthly In Oxford free guide to what’s on in the City and County. You

can also contact Oxford Contemporary Music ([email protected] or 01865 488369) or

any of the organisations listed here or check www.ocmevents.org for up-dated information.

This Guide has been compiled by Oxford Contemporary Music for Fivearts Cities, a unique partnership between Five and Arts CouncilEngland, designed to showcase the nation's cultural offering and encourage people to find out more, participate in and enjoy the arts.Fivearts Cities is presenting a distinctive mix of high profile programmes, events and educational initiatives within Oxford during 2006/2007.

in Oxford

Making Music

I believe that we are all born with an ability to make a sound that draws attention to ourselveswhether we are hungry, angry, happy or sad. As we grow into adulthood we retain thisfundamental desire to express ourselves but feel self-conscious and constrained. Duringfilming for The Singing Estate, I tried to encourage every individual involved to release anddevelop their own sound and means of self-expression. It has been moving to witness howthis has developed people’s confidence, self-awareness and all aspects of communicationand social interaction. It has been an inspiration to discover that, through belonging to thischoir, people who have never communicated with each other before have become firm friends.

Thanks to Fivearts Cities, the joint initiative between Five and Arts Council England who madeThe Singing Estate possible, working with the Blackbird Leys Choir gave me an unforgettableexperience in Oxford. During the filming I saw people open their minds to different musicalpossibilities. I hope this project encourages other communities in Oxford to embark onmusical initiatives and that this booklet will be a useful guide to help get you started.

Ivor Setterfield

Foreword

| GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD

Singing GroupsSinging Groups

Afropean SingingCourseLed by Anita Daulne of the legendary Belgian-Congogroup Zap Mama, these courses provide a differentapproach to song, breaking out from the tropical rainforest and into the ethnic blend of the city.

JOINING All abilities welcome, no need to read music.REHEARSALS Tuesdays, 6.30pm-8.30pm.Asian Cultural Centre, Manzil Way, Cowley Rd, Oxford.HOW MUCH? £90 for 10 weeks (concessions).CONTACT MJ Thomas. Tel: 01865 744523Mob: 07949 736986 Email: [email protected]

Cherwell SingersOur repertoire covers sacred and secular music from the late Medieval period to 20th-century works(some written especially for the choir), and includes notonly central compositions of the choral repertory butmany lesser-known pieces. We usually give six concerts a year, and also have a variable number of special engagements for conferences and weddings, etc.

JOINING We are always ready to welcome new members, though we try to maintain our 'intimate' size of about 24. We audition each term, and you needto be able to sight-read, though not to a spectacularstandard. You also need to sing accurately and in tune.Feel free to contact us if you would like to know more or visit www.cherwellsingers.org.REHEARSALS Wednesdays, 8-10pm.SS Mary and John Church, Cowley Road, Oxford.HOW MUCH? £25 a term(Negotiable depending on income) CONTACT Julia Craig-Mcfeely. Email: [email protected]

There are many choirs, singing groups and courses in Oxford. Here’s just a selection... Christminster SingersChristminster Singers perform a wide range of music from the West Gallery tradition together with othersongs in the same style, from both sides of the Atlantic.It is robust, uninhibited and exciting music with powerfulharmonies. This unorthodox music, slowly being revivedin Britain over the last ten years, was current in Britishchurches from the early 1700s to the mid-1800s. Then ideas of how people should behave in churchchanged and the music was found to be too lively andirreverent to remain there.

CONTACT Heather Bower. Tel: 01865 714518

City Of Oxford ChoirThe City of Oxford Choir is a medium sized ensembleof 40 voices drawn from all realms of life in the cityand surrounding areas and a wide range of ages.They are fortunate to have an excellent balance ofvoices including a strong tenor and bass section.The choir performs a range of music from Bach to20th century pieces in three concerts a year (December,March and July). Social events (some of which also helpraise funds for the choir) have included wine tastingevenings and after-concert parties. The choir regularlyperforms in Queens, Keble and Merton College chapelsproviding the opportunity to sing in architecturally andacoustically beautiful surroundings.

JOINING The choir is always keen to welcome newmembers with good voices.REHEARSALS Mondays, 7.30-9.30pm.Magdalen College School, Oxford.HOW MUCH? Annual membership costs £120 ayear. Members rarely have to purchase their ownmusic as it is usually obtained on loan.CONTACT Kate Lack (Secretary). Tel: 01865 511326Email: [email protected]

CommotioCommotio is one of Oxford's leading choral groups,formed in August 1999 to provide a refreshingalternative to the more readily available repertoireoffered by most other chamber choirs, performingprimarily lesser known material of the 20th and21st centuries. Matthew Berry, the founder andconductor of the choir, enthusiastically promotes thework of a younger generation of composers, as wellas bringing to the fore little-known works of moreestablished writers. In short, Commotio offers singersand audiences alike something a little different.The choir varies between 20 and 30 in number,depending on the requirements of the repertoire.

JOINING Commotio's auditions are generallyheld at the beginning of the academic year, for allvoices. Auditions at other times may be arranged,depending on the current needs of the choir. They always like to hear from strong singers with good sight-reading ability!REHEARSALS Wednesday evenings during the university terms in a central Oxford location.CONTACT Kate Johnston. Mob: 07711 980279Email: [email protected]

East Oxford

Choirs and Singing Groups

"The most unlikely types of music thrivein Oxford. Under cover of the city's imageof institutional respectability, there areall sorts of deeply creative musiciansmaking some very exciting (and often very strange) music. You just have to dig around a bit!"

DOM LASH Musician/Oxford Improvisers member

MAKING MUSIC | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD | MAKING MUSIC

East OxfordCommunity ChoirEOCC was founded in 1966 and has beendirected by Mel Houldershaw since then. The groupexists to provide an opportunity for anyone who wishes to sing in a relaxed learning environment. The repertoire is extremely varied, encompassing acapella and accompanied music from all ages. We have two concerts per year, and have a successfulexchange link with a choir in Grenoble, France.

JOINING Open to 7 to 70 year olds. No auditions.REHEARSALS Sundays 12 noon-1.30pm (term-time).CONTACT Mel Holdershaw.Email: [email protected] Attwoll. Email: [email protected]

Headington SingersHeadington Singers was founded in 1985 by sixenthusiasts (some of them still participating), to createa local group for choral singers in Headington and EastOxford. Since then they have gone from strength tostrength and membership numbers around 60-70people, some of them travelling from outside Oxford.

JOINING You need no more than enthusiasm and awillingness to learn. It helps if you can sight read, butthis is not essential as there is plenty of help to masterthe score. No auditions – if you think you can sing, youprobably can! There are vacancies in all voices – soprano,alto, tenor, bass – but tenors and basses are especiallywelcome! No age limits, members range from their 20s totheir 70s. Much as we love singing, we like socialisingtoo – though this is not compulsory! Try us out for a couple of sessions before making a (termly) commitment.REHEARSALS Tuesdays (term-time), 7.30-9.15 pmThe music room at Cheney School, Cheney Lane, Oxford.CONTACT Will. Tel: 01865 765878Email: [email protected]

Joined up SingingA community choir drawing on a range of inspiringharmony songs from around the world, andcontemporary compositions. Teaching by ear(no music-reading ability necessary, no auditions).Opportunities to perform at local events.Led by Janet Stansfeld and Liz Hodgson.

JOINING Please contact to join.REHEARSALS Mondays, 7.00pm-9.00pm.St Andrew’s Primary School hall, London Road,Headington, Oxford.CONTACT Janet Stansfeld. Tel: 01865 762200Email: [email protected]

Jubilate!Friendly, Oxford-based chamber choir of around 25singers which aims to rehearse and perform music ofall periods to a high standard. We give three mainconcerts a year, with occasional other events.

JOINING Jubilate! welcomes experienced singersof all voices, especially tenors and basses.REHEARSALS Tuesdays, 7.30-9.30 pmCall Fiona Mills to confirm venue.CONTACT Fiona Mills. Tel: 01993 810069

Oxford Bach ChoirThe Oxford Bach Choir, founded in 1896, continuesto perform superlative classical music concerts fromboth the classic and modern choral repertoire in SirChristopher Wren’s magnificent Sheldonian Theatre.The City's premier choir with over 200 voices drawnfrom the City, County and Universities of Oxford.

JOINING The Oxford Bach Choir always welcomesnew members whether you are Soprano, Alto,Tenor orBass. The size of the choir is maintained at around 180voices with a set number of singers in each section.Also, with many of the pieces that we sing, it is oftennecessary to split each section into firsts and seconds.Taking on new members in September/October 2006.REHEARSALS The majority of rehearsals are held at the Sheldonian Theatre during University term time.HOW MUCH? £150 per year (less for concessions).CONTACT Katy Weston. Tel: 01635 201356.Email: [email protected]

Oxford Community ChoirAll abilities, wide range of songs includingsongs from around the world, singing for funnot performance. All welcome!

JOINING Call Sarah for further details.REHEARSALS Tuesdays, 7.30pm.St Columba's Church, Alfred Street, Oxford.HOW MUCH? £2 per session (£1 for unwaged).CONTACT Sarah. Tel: 01865 251421.

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Oxford Gospel ChoirA community choir that gives everyone the opportunityto sing gospel and contemporary songs. ‘We are broughttogether by the love of music and the enjoyment ofsinging as a form of entertainment.’ Open to anyonewhatever their age, ability or faith. This is also anextremely sociable choir with regular trips to the puband other social events.

JOINING No auditions. You don’t need to read musicand we welcome singers of all abilities and backgrounds.REHEARSALS Tuesdays, 7.30-9.30pm.HOW MUCH? £2 donation per rehearsal (voluntary).CONTACT Jules Francis. Mob: 077499 42646Email: [email protected] just turn up at a rehearsal.

Singing GroupsSinging Groups

“There's such a diversity of music makinghere that it's hard to define... I just likethe feeling that there are lots of differentpeople singing and playing all over town,even if I don't know them!”

LIZ HODGSON Natural Voice Practitioner


Oxford Welsh MaleVoice ChoirNow over seventy years old and consisting mainly of Englishmen, the choir still prides itself in following theWelsh traditions and has something of a cult followingin Oxford. The repertoire is varied: English & Welshhymns, folk tunes, spirituals, show tunes and operaticpieces. Concert venues range from small village halls &parishes churches, through town halls, up to the RoyalAlbert Hall or St David’s Hall in Cardiff.

CONTACT John Prout (Chairman) Tel: 01235 521307Colin Edwards (Secretary) Tel: 01865 552629Email: [email protected]

The Non Singers’ ChoirThe Non Singers’ Choir are a non performing choir set upto learn everything from show tunes to folk songs andto have fun singing. Anyone of any ability can join, andyou’re welcome to attend several sessions free ofcharge before committing to the group.

CONTACT Ruth Lamdin. Tel: 01865 767160

Seagreen SingersA community singing group which welcomes everyonewho likes to sing Songs that Change the World (songsabout justice, peace, the environment, women, work, andmore). No singing experience necessary, just passion!

CONTACT Sid Phelps. Tel: 01865 727723

Singing Popular StylesA weekly singing class, run during term-time at Ruskin College's Walton Street site, in central Oxford.The course aims to help anybody who has everwanted to improve their voice or to sing in differentstyles from jazz and soul to gospel, blues and folk.

CONTACT Beryl Stewart. Tel: 0870 066 0854Email: [email protected] College, Walton Street, Oxford OX1 2HE.

Music GroupsSinging Groups

Ark TThis youth music project is open to a wide range of people aged 11-18, offering chances to gain experiencethrough recording, performance and workshops.Specific projects include: the Ark-T studio recording sessions for young musicians in a dedicated 16-trackstudio and rehearsal space; the Live Sessions, a chanceto perform in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere; andthe Young Women’s Band Project, which encouragespersonal empowerment for girls through music.

CONTACT Kate Garrett or Jon Fletcher.Tel: 01865 396778 Email: [email protected]: www.ark-t.org www.myspace.com/arktstudio www.myspace.com/ywbpThe Ark-T Centre, Crowell Road, Cowley, Oxford OX4 3LN.

Catweazle ClubAn intimate and magical space for musicians, singers,poets, storytellers and performance artists of everyimaginable hue, who grace the stage every Thursdaynight. A chance to sit, to listen, to play, to performand to be inspired.

WHEN? Thursdays 8pmEast Oxford Community Centre,Cowley Rd, Oxford (Corner of Princes Street).CONTACT Matt Sage. Tel: 01865 247714Email: [email protected]: www.catweazleclub.org

One of the great things about music in Oxford is the ability to get involved, whether youplay an instrument, sing, DJ, MC, record music, whistle vaguely in tune or would just liketo be able to do any of those! The following is a selection of the ways you can getinvolved. The opportunities are really exciting and they don’t all cost money!

Music Groups (learning, performing and recording music)

“Oxford's a great place to cut your musicalteeth, lots of venues and a high standard ofbands and musicians. It's the communityof artists and friends here though, that hasreally made me stay over the years”.

KATE GARRETT Musician and youth worker


City of OxfordSilver BandOpen to brass players and percussionists, this 100year old band appears at a variety of engagementsthroughout the year which include taking part in aselection of competitions.

CONTACT Jenny Davis.Tel: 07811 856121 Website: www.cosb.co.ukTemple Road, Cowley, Oxford OX4 2EZ.

City of Oxford Brass BandA brass band which competes in the championship section of the London and Southern Counties area of the UK, and is engaged to play at a wide variety of different events such as weddings, formal dinners, civic receptions, corporate hospitality events, charityconcerts, country shows and Christmas dinners. It alsoincludes a Training Band which plays at engagementsmainly during the summer. The Band is a friendly butambitious organisation which welcomes players of alllevels, especially experienced, accomplished bandsmenand those who would like to reach their full potential.

CONTACT Phil Gurney. Tel: 01865 778785 Mob: 07929 525981Olivia Yarker. Tel: 01235 848669Website: www.communigate.co.uk/oxford/cityoxfordbrassband

County Music ServiceWhatever your age, whatever your musical interests,our aim in the County Music Service is to be able tohelp you to meet your musical needs. We offeropportunities from rock to classical, steel pans tosamba, courses for mothers and babies to classesfor adults, and most things in between.

CONTACT County Music Service. Tel: 01865 740000Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk

Drum BeatsDrum Beats offers drum kit and beginners rhythmtuition to children in primary and secondary schoolsin Oxford and Oxfordshire, and holiday short courses.

CONTACT Nigel Ralf Tel: 01865 456234Mob: 07910 433265.Email: [email protected]: www.drum-beats.co.uk44 Warwick Street, Oxford OX4 1SX.

FusionRuns community based arts activities open to all,ranging from music to sculpture and film.

CONTACT Tara Stewart. Tel: 01865 245735 Email: [email protected]: www.fusion-arts.orgEast Oxford Community Centre, Princes Street, Oxford OX4 1HU.

Music GroupsMusic Groups

ITHACASupporting the personal and professional development of disabled and older musicians, visual, performing andmedia artists.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 791668Email: [email protected]: www.ithaca.org.ukThe Annexe, SS Mary and John School,Meadow Lane, Oxford OX4 1TJ.

Kennington BandA brass band based in Kennington (near Oxford), that plays at concerts, church and village fetes, carnivals,community events and formal dinners. The band isalways keen to welcome new players. We practice atKennington Village Hall, in Kennington near Oxford, on Sundays at 10.30 am - come along if you are interested in joining.

CONTACT Ron Sudworth. Email: [email protected]: www.mrcontrol.co.uk/kob2005

Kuridza MbiraA group dedicated to celebrating, teaching and performing aspects of Zimbabwe music and culture;hosts regular community workshops to teach mbira, a hand-held traditional instrument which is playedinside a gourd resonator.

CONTACT Moses Bikishoni. Tel: 01865 559646Email: [email protected] Lobley. Mob: 07939 738059Email: [email protected]

Music Therapy forPeople with DementiaPilot service running May - Dec 2006 in Headington. Funded by The Guideposts Trust.

CONTACT Pemma. Tel: 01865 775520Email: [email protected]

“For a city of its size, Oxford boasts ahuge range of extremely talented musi-cians covering just about every aspect ofmusic. Even better, at its heart is a thriv-ing music community which is extremelyinclusive and welcoming.”

STUART FOWKES Musician, Oxfordbands.com


Oxfordbands.comThe online music community for Oxfordshire - profiles of more than 700 local bands, the latest news, gig listings,photos, live and record reviews, and guides for new bandson how to get started. They also promotes live showsevery month showcasing talent from right across the UK.

CONTACT Stuart Fowkes.Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordbands.com

Oxford CaledonianPipes and DrumsA Scottish pipe band consisting of up to 18 pipers and drummers, which performs at parades, fêtes, Burns Nightcelebrations and other events. We welcome experiencedplayers of all ages and train new players free of charge.

REHEARSALS Thursdays 7.30 - 9.30pm Oxford Silver Band Hall, Temple Cowley, Oxford OX4 2EZ CONTACT Gordon Buchanan (Secretary) Tel: 01865 513858Ian Knight (Piper Major) Tel: 01865 434887Website: www.oxfordpipeband.co.uk

Oxford Chamber CourseAnnual summer music courses for young string playersaged 9-18. Introductory course grades 3-5+, advancedcourse grade 6-8+.

CONTACT Judith & Tim Dallosso.Tel: 01865 245910 Email: [email protected]

Oxford Company of MusiciansDedicated to getting music to those who wouldn’tordinarily be able to take part, they may well be coming your way soon!

CONTACT Isabel KnowlandEmail: [email protected]: www.oxfordcm.org.uk

Oxford Gamelan SocietyAn opportunity to play and learn about the fascinatingbronze percussion orchestra of Java. One of the country’sbest established and most frequently performing groups.Meets Wednesdays during University term time.

REHEARSALS Wednesdays (University term-time)Beginners’ session from 6 - 7.30pmCONTACT Pete Smith. Tel: 07740 377610Website: www.ousu.org/main/clubsocs/sport-games-martial/gamelanBalfour Building, 60 Banbury Road, Oxford.

Oxford ImprovisorsThey run improvised music concerts at a variety of venues around Oxford and a regular informal playingsession most Mondays at 7:30pm at Oxford BrookesUniversity, Headington Hill. They are also always interested in new musicians to join the Oxford Improvisers Orchestra.

CONTACT Dominic Lash.Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordimprovisers.com

Music GroupsMusic Groups

Oxford Summer SchoolRunning yearly in Oxford, Oxford Summer School offersthe chance to try out singing and instrumental jazz taughtby some of the best performers around.

CONTACT Richard Speed. Tel: 01367 710593Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordsummerschool.comwww.oxfordlivejazz.com

Oxford UniversityMusic FacultyAs well as the university courses, they also run a series of workshops and talks, which are open to the public.

CONTACT Hannah Bujic. Tel: 01865 276141Email: [email protected]: www.music.ox.ac.uk

OYAP (OXFORDSHIRE YOUTH ARTS PARTNERSHIP)OYAP has been working since 1998 to raise funds and establish new and innovative creative projects for youngpeople, including some great music projects.

CONTACT Helen Le Brocq.Tel: 01235 522230Website: www.oyap.org.uk

Oxford Village BandHere’s a totally different way to enjoy music-making –join a band where players of (nearly!) any instrument gettogether and play traditional music in the style of the oldEnglish village bands. No audition but you must be over16 and have a working knowledge of your instrument.

WHEN? Wednesdays.Littlemore Village Hall, Railway Lane, Oxford.CONTACT Dave Townsend. Tel: 01865 714778Website: www.handsonmusic.org.uk

“I think Oxford is a great place to be making music. There are so many interesting local musicians around to collaborate with, if that’s what you’re trying to do, or just to be inspired by.”

Zöe Bicât Singer Songwriter


Hearing MusicMusic Groups

MAKING MUSIC | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD

RotatorRecording studio/rehearsal rooms and label frequentedby all the best local bands. They were the old home to the Mystics and are now the new home to Eberg,amongst others.

CONTACT Richard Cotton. Tel: 01865 205600 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rotator.co.ukRotator Studios, 74-77 Magdalen Rd, Oxford OX4 1RE.

Sol SambaOxford's community samba band providing the livelycarnival soundtrack to events across the County including the Cowley Road Carnival. If you’re interestedin joining, get in touch.

CONTACT Email: [email protected]: www.solsamba.co.uk

Soundworks StudioA professional studio and rehearsal space on BlackbirdLeys estate open to all at extremely reasonable rates.They also run summer workshops. Visit the website for up to date details.

CONTACT Dave Norland. Tel: 01865 401585Email: [email protected]: www.soundworks-oxford.co.uk

Turan AudioGet your recordings mastered and sounding the business by the best in the business, here in Oxford. Clients haveincluded, well everyone, but Marylyn Manson and StatusQuo might ring some bells

CONTACT Ro Turan. Tel: 01865 716466Email: [email protected]: www.turanaudio.co.uk

University of OxfordDepartment forContinuing EducationOffers a range of full time, part time, weekly, day andweekend courses covering music history, theory and

practice, including composers’, pianists’, singers’ andstring players’ workshops.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 270360Website: www.conted.ox.ac.uk1 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA.

“Oxford is a great place to be makingmusic. It is a very small city but with avery active music scene, and it's easy tomeet like-minded people to work with. There are plenty of people with a wealth of experience who will be happy to offeradvice or, if you want it, honest and forthright criticism.”

RONAN MUNRO Nightshift Magazine

Gigs and ConcertsGigs and Concerts

WORLD MUSIC

Big VillagePromoting high quality music from around the world inOxfordshire often with the chance to meet the artists.Check their website for the latest concerts.

CONTACT Matt Sage. Tel: 01865 247714 Email: [email protected]: www.bigvillage.org16B Cherwell Street, Oxford, OX4 1BG.

FOLK

The Oxford Folk ClubShowcasing local and national folk music at Friday evening gigs. Contact for up-to-date listings.

CONTACT Pam Cooper. Tel: 01865 768128Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordfolkclub.com

The OxfordFolk FestivalYearly at Oxford Town Hall and around the city, the great music and welcoming atmosphere set thisapart as a truly fantastic festival.

CONTACT Tim Healey. Tel: 01865 249194Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordfolkfestival.com

JAZZ

The SpinThe longest running jazz club and nominee for The Parliamentary Jazz Awards, The Spin showcasessome of the UK’s finest touring jazz artists everyThursday at The Wheatsheaf on the High Street.Music for anyone who can nod a head or tap a foot!

CONTACT Mark Doffman. Tel: 01865 245537Website: www.spinjazz.com

For its size Oxford has a lot of live music going on! Almost every night of the week there’ssomething to suit pretty much every taste. In recent years there’s been an explosion ofmetal and rock bands; the hip hop scene flourishes with help from people like Blunted;jazz is represented by stalwarts like the Spin Club and the sessions at the Chester Arms.If classical music is more your taste, then you’re in the right place!

Jazz at the Big BangEvery Wednesday from 8pm downstairs at (officially)Britain’s best Bangers & Mash restaurant. Candle lit intimate jazz, soul and blues from local and nationallyacclaimed musicians. For bookings contact the restaurant.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 511441Website: www.thebigbangoxford.co.uk124 Walton Street, Jericho, Oxford OX2 6HA.

ROCK, POP AND HIP HOP

Beard MuseumRecord Label and promoter, check out their regularnights at the Purple Turtle (off Cornmarket Street)showcasing some of Oxford’s finest bands and soloartists. Free entry with a full beard!

CONTACT Steve Stevens. Tel: 07713 083 007Email: [email protected]: www.beardmuseum.com11 Howard Street, Oxford OX4 3AY

BluntedPromoting the freshest Hip Hop, Drum and Bass, Souland Breakdancing on record and live. This label/promoteris home to some of Oxford and the UK’s finest talent!

CONTACT Website: www.bluntedpresents.co.uk

CLASSICAL

University College ChoirsOxford is renowned worldwide for its fantastic collegechoirs and their concerts provide a great chance to hearbeautiful music in some of Oxford’s oldest and mostspectacular venues. Among the most famous are New College Choir (www.newcollegechoir.co.uk), ChristChurch Cathedral Choir (www.chchchoir.org) andMagdalen College choir (www.magd.ox.ac.uk) which singfor weekly Sunday services at their respective collegechapels/cathedral (where you can see them for free!).

City of Oxford OrchestraAs well as regular performances at the SheldonianTheatre of popular classical repertoire, the orchestra alsoruns workshops in schools and elsewhere, and takesmusic into homes for those with Alzheimer’s.

CONTACT Lindsay Andison. Tel: 01865 744457Email: [email protected]: www.cityofoxfordorchestra.co.uk

Music at OxfordMusic at Oxford run a season of classical music concertsfrom October - June, inviting a selection of prestigiousinternationally known performers to the City.

CONTACT Ruth Cadiot.Email: [email protected]: www.musicatoxford.com

Gigs and Concerts

HEARING MUSIC | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD | HEARING MUSIC

“Oxford boasts a wealth of musical activityprovided by a large number of talentedmusicians living in the area...a uniquemusical environment that has become theenvy of many cities around the UK.”

DR MARIOS PAPADOPOULOSMusic Director Oxford Philomusica

Gigs and ConcertsGigs and Concerts

Oxford ChamberMusic FestivalEach year some of the world’s finest classical musicians descend on Oxford and stay here for a week performingconcerts heightened by the amazing atmosphere this temporary community creates.

CONTACT Festival Director: Jose PhilipsEmail: [email protected]

Oxford Coffee ConcertsThe Oxford Coffee Concerts were started in 1986and have since established themselves as one of themost successful classical chamber music series inthe country. The concerts are held nearly every Sundaymorning throughout the year.

CONTACT Chris Windas. Tel: 01295 810683Website: www.coffeeconcerts.com

Oxford Lieder FestivalFounded in 2002, the Festival has rapidly developed into the only significant, large-scale festival of classicalsong in the UK. Oxford Lieder puts on approximately 40 concerts per year, bringing both world-renownednames and the very best of a new generation of singersand pianists to the city.

CONTACT Peter Burrows.Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordlieder.co.uk

Oxford PhilomusicaOxford Philomusica is a professional symphony orchestra and the Orchestra in Residence at the University of Oxford.It presents a comprehensive season of concerts throughoutthe year ranging from Schubert to Tippett and Handel toTchaikovsky. In August 1999, the orchestra inaugurated thefirst major International Piano Festival to be held in Oxford.

CONTACT Lesley Wynne.Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordphil.com

A BIT OF EVERYTHING

Arne Richards and the Oxford Concert PartyOCP plays a wide variety of music from Vivaldi to Piazzolla, French café music to Argentinean tango, Irish laments to Finnish polkas. As well as playing in regular concert venues OCP is committed to bringingmusic to wherever they feel it can play a healing,humanising or educative role. Hence they have an ongoing extensive outreach programme of music in residential homes, prisons and schools.

CONTACT Isabel Knowland.Email: [email protected]: www.oxfordconcertparty.org

OxfordContemporary MusicPromoting the best of the new in world music, folk, jazz classical, electronica and sound art in venues acrossOxford. Their two series a year run from March – June and October – December. They also have an extensiveeducational outreach programme, and work with othermusic organisations and Oxford City Council to developand improve the music scene in Oxford. Visit the website to sign up to the mailing list and getupdates of their latest events.

CONTACT Tim Hand. Tel: 01865 488369Email: [email protected]: www.ocmevents.org

Pin DropperformancesEverything from acoustic balladry to mangled electronicaand folk to flamenco in these monthly Sunday afternoongigs at the Port Mahon, St Clements St., Oxford.

CONTACT Seb Reynolds.Email: [email protected]: www.pindropperformances.co.uk

TCT MusicPromoting a good chunk of the gigs at the Zodiac as wellas gigs in London and Reading. International, national andlocal bands, from hard rock and punk to pop acoustic.

CONTACT Email: [email protected]: www.tctmusic.co.ukTCT Music, PO Box 524, Oxford OX3 0ZR.

Vacuous Pop RecordsThe best of the UK and international underground,promoted live and released on record. Americanalternative country one minute, screaming devilishpost-rock the next – you never know what to expectwith the bands Vacuous Pop promotes, but that’s thecharm of it! Check out their gigs at The Wheatsheafand Port Mahon.

CONTACT Ady Foley.Email: [email protected]: www.vacuouspop.com

“A city of 140,000 or so continues to provide a more diverse and vibrant music scene than much of what goes on sixty miles down the road in the chartered wilderness of the Capital withits excess of fifty times the population.”

MALCOLM ATKINSMusician, composer, Oxford Improvisers, Dubweiser


VenuesVenues

The BullingdonCheck out the regular blues and jazz nights,rightly renowned across the City.

CONTACT Osprey. Tel: 01865 747368Website: pub-explorer.com/oxon/pub/bullingdonoxford.htm

The CellarFrom club nights to the cream of local and national bands, The Cellar has it all, right in the centre of town.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 244761Email: [email protected] Website: www.cellarmusic.co.ukFrewins Court, just off Cornmarket St.

East OxfordCommunity CentreHome to some of the most interesting events in Oxford,everything from Catweazle Club (see Music Groups) todub nights. With events on almost every night of theweek there’s something there for most people.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 792168Email: [email protected] Princes St, Oxford OX4 1HU.

Exeter HallSupporting a big chunk of Oxford’s rock and pop musiccommunity. Hardly a day goes by when you can’t see agig there.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 776431Email: [email protected]: www.exeterhall.co.uk

Holywell Music RoomThe oldest concert hall in Europe, built in 1742; Handel is among the many famous composers and musicians tohave appeared here. Concerts are still held here regularly,especially during the University terms.

CONTACT Contact promoting organisations for detailsof concerts and booking. Holywell Street, Oxford

Jericho TavernUpstairs venue home to an eclectic mix of music.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 31177556 Walton St, Oxford OX2 6AE

Jacqueline du PréMusic BuildingST HILDA’S COLLEGEBuilt in 1996 the Jacqueline du Pre Music Building is Oxford's first purpose built concert hall since Handel'stime. It promotes a series of chamber music concertsand a busy education programme as well as hostingover 100 concerts a year and a variety of activities andrecordings. The building also offers rehearsal spacesand practice facilities.

CONTACT Clare Salter. Tel: 01865 276821Email: [email protected]. Hilda's College, Cowley Place, Oxford OX4 1DY.

Port MahonGetting busier and busier by the day, the Port Mahonplays host to one of the most ecletic mixes of music in Oxford. Promoters like Oxford Improvisers, VacuousPop and Oxford Bands make sure its upstairs room is always buzzing to sounds of everything from improvised music to electronica, rock or folk, by localand international artists.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 20206782 St Clements Street, Oxford.

QI ClubAs well as an excellent bar, QI hosts a variety of local music from world music dj’s to local singer-songwriters and jazz.

CONTACT Victoria De Wolfe. Tel: 01865 721156Email: [email protected] Website: www.qi.com/building


VenuesVenues like the Holywell Music Room (Europe’s oldest surviving purpose built concert hall),the Sheldonian, and Jacqueline du Pré Music Building hardly stop reverberating to thesounds of high class Oxford orchestras, choirs and soloists, as well as international artistspromoted by the likes of Music at Oxford. Oxford Contemporary Music and Big Villagemake sure that there’s a steady stream of music from the best this Country has to offer toartists from around the world. What we’ve listed here is just the tip of the Oxford iceberg!

“I particularly like the range of small-to-medium venues, from club settings like the Zodiac and Cellar Bar to the more classically-orientated Jacqueline du PréMusic Building and Holywell Music Room.They’re all great places to play – but accessible to young artists making a start.”

TIM HEALEYOxford Folk Festival/Beautiful Jo Records

Buying Music

Sheldonian TheatreBuilt between 1664-8. Ever since the Sheldonianhas been a hub of activity for Oxford University.It is also used by many of the City’s orchestras, choirs and classical promoters. Its amazing architecture and wonderful acoustic make it the perfect place to listen to music.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 277299Website: www.sheldon.ox.ac.ukSheldonian Theatre, Broad St, Oxford.

The WheatsheafHome to everything from jazz to rock, electronica to folk.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 721156Website: [email protected] High St, Oxford OX1 4DF.

www.WeGotTickets.comAn online box office, promoting advance ticket sales forall kinds of events.

ZodiacOne of Oxford’s busiest venues, attracting an amazingamount of talent from massive acts like Rage againstthe Machine and Radiohead to the cream of new rock,with a healthy dose of dance music, jazz and worldmusic thrown in. Home to one of Oxford’s busiestpromoters, TCT Music.

CONTACT Autumn Neagle. Tel: 01865 420042Email: [email protected]: www.the-zodiac.co.uk190 Cowley Road, Oxford.

VenuesHEARING MUSIC | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD

Record LabelsBUYING MUSIC | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD

Music Instruments & SuppliesGUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD | BUYING MUSIC

Truck RecordsHome of Electric Soft Parade, Piney Gir, Goldrush, andorganisers of the exceedingly fine Truck Festival. Truck Records supports young artists through their TruckClub Juniors project. Run as a competition, they provide aday in the studio with a professional engineer for a youngband to cut a demo. They select bands from applicationsmade directly to them. Bands must be under 18 and havenot recorded in a proper studio before.

CONTACT P-C Rae. Email: [email protected]: www.truckrecords.com

Shifty DiscoLong running Oxford label.

CONTACT Dave NewtonEmail: [email protected]: www.shiftydisco.co.uk

RECORD SHOPS

Avid RecordsAll the vinyl you could ever want (and CD’s too!).

CONTACT Tel: 01865 2004114 Gloucester Street (behind Laser Quest), Oxford

FoppCheap as chips, good as gold.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 251918Gloucester Green (next to Cult Clothing) Oxford

Oxfordmusic.netOnline sales of CD’s and T-shirts for local artists.

CONTACT Andy ClydeE-mail: [email protected]: www.oxfordmusic.net

Polar BearCowley Road’s finest.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 251443183 Cowley Rd, Oxford OX4 1UT.

Vinyl FrontierCowley Road’s other finest!

CONTACT Tel: 01865 201204101a Cowley Rd, Oxford OX4 1HU.

MUSIC INSTRUMENTS & SUPPLIES

AllegroOne of Britain's best saxophone shops and the final resting place of both Tubby Hayes' and Ronnie Scott'shorns. Also sell other reed and brass instruments andcarry out repairs and restorations.

CONTACT Roger Baycock. Tel: 01865 798165 Email: [email protected]: www.saxophoneheaven.com404 Marston Road, Oxford, Marston OX3 0JE.

Buying Music

RECORD LABELS

Akuaba recordsPromoting the best unsigned bands in Oxfordshirethrough a yearly compilation.

CONTACT Amy Mckay. Tel: 01865 842391Email: [email protected]: www.akuaba-records.co.uk96 Mill St, Oxford OX5 2EF.

Beautiful Jo RecordsA label with a fast-growing catalogue of folk, acoustic,classical and period music.

CONTACT Tim Healey. Tel: 01865 249194 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bejo.co.uk86 Marlborough Road, Oxford OX1 4LS.

Fourier TransformBroad-based label, which releases electronica and impro-vised music, amongst other things.

CONTACT Simon Minter. Tel: 01865 249194 Email: [email protected]: www.fouriertransform.com103 Marlborough Road, Oxford OX1 4LX.

Quickfix RecordingsQuickfix Recordings is an independent label, with successful releases under its belt including debuts bybands such as Youthmovie Soundtrack Strategies, The Half Rabbits and Smilex. Other projects include,artist management/development, gig booking/promoting. Check out their gigs at The Wheatsheaf.(See Venues)

CONTACT Lee Christian.Email: [email protected]: www.quickfixrecordings.co.uk

There’s no shortage of great places and people willing to part you from your hard earnedcash and what better way than in the purchase of music and musical instruments. Withplenty of great local music to delve into, local music shops are often the best place to start.

Music Instruments & SuppliesBUYING MUSIC | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD

Beecher AcousticsIn the workshop their skilled craftsmen labour meticulously and lovingly on all members of the violinfamily of stringed instruments. Their consultant,Jonathan Beecher, works with musicians to realise thefull potential of their instruments.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 762287Email: [email protected] Old Backery, 1 Quarry High Street, Oxford OX3 8JT.

Blackwells Music ShopBooks on music, classical CDs, sheet music, manuscript paper, gifts and accessories.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 33358123-25 Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3AX.

Courtney PianosSpecialists in restoration of older, traditional pianos.They also supply new and second-hand modern-stylepianos and offer rental and hire-to-buy schemes.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 790400Email: [email protected]: www.courtneypianos.co.uk43 Botley Road, Jericho, Oxford OX2 0BN.

DMR (Delicious MusicRepublic Limited)New and used instruments and an excellent selection of sheet music.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 24278499 St Aldates, Oxford OX1 1BT.

The Music BoxGuitar specialist. Small but with eccentric, interesting stock.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 20411953a Cowley Road, Oxford OX4 1HP.

The Music RoomTraditional music instruments and sheet music.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 249292Email: [email protected]: www.themusicroom-online.co.uk27 Park End Street (Hollybush Row Entrance), Oxford OX1 1HU.

TheOxfordGuitar GalleryThe finest guitars, amplifiers and accessories.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 553777Website: www.oxfordguitargallery.com9 South Parade, Summertown, Oxford OX2 7JL.

Oxford ViolinsThey buy and sell old instruments and bows,and carry out expert appraisals and insurance valuations,as well as high quality restoration work.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 556 558 Email: [email protected] Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 6PE.

Professional MusicTechnologyGuitars and basses, amplification, keyboards and drums,from budget instruments to high quality professionalequipment. Oxford’s own House of Rock (and much more).

CONTACT Tel: 01865 725221Website: www.pmtonline.co.ukTydale House, Cowley Rd, Oxford OX4 1JH

Roberts PianosQuality new and used pianos, tuning, removals, restoration, advice and valuation.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 240634 Email: [email protected]: www.marcusroberts.co.uk87 St. Clements St, Marston, Oxford OX4 1AR.

Music Museums

Music MuseumsMUSIC MUSEUMS | GUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD

The Bate CollectionA wonderful museum with complicated opening hours.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 276128Website: www.bate.ox.ac.uk.comFaculty of Music, St. Aldate’s, Oxford OX1 1DB.

The Pitt Rivers MuseumThe museum has a fascinating anthropological collection of instruments.

CONTACT Tel: 01865 270927Website: www.prm.ox.ac.ukSouth Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PP.

Music MuseumsNotes

NotesGUIDE TO MUSIC IN OXFORD |

“Oxford has a music scene that would bethe envy of any other city of its size.”

Ruth Cadiot Music at Oxford

Guide to Music in Oxford

Documents

Transcript of Guide to Music in Oxford