Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Baroque

 

 

Contemporary

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Fires of London was a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1965 by the British conductor and composer, Peter Maxwell Davies. The ensemble was known for its innovative and experimental approach to classical music, and it quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic groups in the UK. The founding members of Fires of London included some of the most talented and accomplished musicians of the time, including the flautist Richard Adeney, the clarinettist Alan Hacker, the oboist Janet Craxton, the bassoonist Gwydion Brooke, and the horn player Barry Tuckwell. These musicians were all highly respected in their own right, and they brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the ensemble. From the outset, Fires of London was committed to exploring new and unconventional approaches to classical music. The group was particularly interested in contemporary music, and it worked closely with many of the leading composers of the day, including Peter Maxwell Davies himself, as well as Harrison Birtwistle, John Tavener, and many others. One of the highlights of Fires of London's early career was its performance of Maxwell Davies' opera, "Taverner," which was premiered in 1972. The opera was a groundbreaking work that combined elements of medieval music with modernist techniques, and it was widely acclaimed for its originality and inventiveness. Over the years, Fires of London continued to push the boundaries of classical music, and it became known for its adventurous and daring programming. The ensemble performed a wide range of works, from the classics of the repertoire to the most cutting-edge contemporary pieces. In addition to its performances, Fires of London was also involved in a number of recording projects. The group recorded extensively for the Argo label, and its recordings were highly regarded for their technical excellence and musical sensitivity. One of the most notable achievements of Fires of London was its collaboration with the choreographer, Kenneth MacMillan, on the ballet, "The Judas Tree." The ballet was premiered by the Royal Ballet in 1992, and it was widely acclaimed for its powerful and evocative score, which was composed by Maxwell Davies and performed by Fires of London. Throughout its career, Fires of London received numerous awards and accolades for its contributions to classical music. The ensemble was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's Ensemble Award in 1971, and it was also awarded the prestigious Gramophone Award for its recording of Maxwell Davies' "Eight Songs for a Mad King." Despite its many achievements, Fires of London disbanded in 1990, after 25 years of performing and recording together. The group's legacy, however, lives on, and it continues to be remembered as one of the most innovative and influential ensembles in the history of classical music.

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