Mr Handel's Charitable Works

A benefit concert in aid of the Foundling Museum at St John’s, Smith Square, London SW1P 3HA.

Tickets: £15, £20, £35 (£35 tickets include an interval drink and programme). To book call +44 (0)20 7841 3608 or email the Development Department.

In 1749, Handel generously offered to give a fund-raising concert to help complete the Foundling Hospital in Coram’s Fields. This historic occasion, for which Handel specially wrote the Foundling Hospital Anthem and presented highlights from his new oratorio Solomon and Peace Anthem, was a great success. 

Inspired by these performances, Mr Handel’s Charitable Works, taking place on St Cecilia’s Day, also includes excerpts from Handel’s ode to the patron saint of music (From Heavenly Harmony) and from his Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne, including the ravishing Eternal Source of Light Divine.  Queen Anne herself inspired the design of St John’s, Smith Square, the glorious setting for this concert which brings some of Handel’s best-loved pieces (including the Hallelujah Chorus and the Arrival of the Queen of Sheba) together with lesser known gems. Hilary Davan Wetton conducts the City of London Choir, acclaimed period ensemble Music for Awhile and internationally renowned counter-tenor Michael Chance.

Programme: ‘From Heavenly Harmony’ (excerpts from Ode to St Cecilia), Anthem on the Peace, Foundling Hospital Anthem, ‘Eternal Source of Light Divine’ (excerpts from Ode on the birthday of Queen Anne), Solomon (excerpts from the oratorio)

Performed by City of London Choir, Music for Awhile, conductor Hilary Davan Wetton, counter-tenor Michael Chance and tenor Matthew Long.

“The youthful City of London Choir under its director Hilary Davan Wetton proved that magic could be kindled.” BBC Music Magazine

All tickets bought support the Foundling Museum.