The Art of Baroque: Masterclass & Concert

Join If Opera for a delightful and inspiring few hours in the company of Christian Curnyn, widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading Baroque specialists, for a rare opportunity to observe a master at work. This open masterclass offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process as ideas take shape and young singers, selected from the repertory ensemble, develop and grow in real time.

Set in the beautiful St Mary’s Church, Wingfield, whose warm acoustic is perfectly suited to Baroque music, the day is designed to be relaxed and welcoming. You are free to observe the masterclass throughout, or dip in and out as you wish.

At lunchtime, take time to unwind: book a table at The Cowshed by Homewood or bring a picnic and enjoy the surroundings at your leisure. After lunch, return for a short, uplifting 45-minute concert, where the young singers will showcase what they have learned, accompanied by harpsichord virtuoso Oliver-John Ruthven (Baroque Double Bill, 2025).

This is a rare chance to witness Baroque performance practice up close, from exploration to transformation, all within a beautifully paced day. Early booking is strongly recommended as places are limited.

“Find anything exciting happening in period opera in the UK and Curnyn will be involved, whether it’s conducting at the Wanamaker or ENO, recording Handel or directing his own projects.” The Spectator

“Christian Curnyn supplied the most authoritative Handel conducting heard at this address for a good many years: expertly paced and drawing expressive singing and orchestral playing alike." Barry Millington, The Standard

“Conductor Christian Curnyn demonstrates complete mastery of Handel’s idiom.” George Hall, The Stage