?  We are thrilled to introduce our orchestra, the Musical and Amicable Society, for our forthcoming Bach Mass in B Minor in the beautiful acoustics and surroundings of Southwell Minster.

 

?  Founded in 1762 by James Kempson, the original Musical and Amicable Society began as a gathering of singers from St Bartholomew’s Chapel and St Philip’s Church, meeting at Cooke’s Tavern in Birmingham’s Cherry Orchard “for practice and recreation.” 

 

?  Revived in 2003 by Kate Fawcett and Martin Perkins, the society lives on as a collective of professional period-instrument specialists, performing in formations from intimate chamber groups to full orchestra. Whatever the size, our ethos remains the same: chamber music at heart, with every player an essential voice.

 

?  We collaborate regularly with choirs across the Midlands and beyond in major works from Vivaldi to Verdi, and create bespoke projects for smaller forces — from Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos at the Three Choirs Festival to recording our vibrant Fiddlers Three programme of Restoration court music.

 

?  We are delighted to be performing with the Nottingham Harmonic Choir in one of our favourite venues.  ?