We are thrilled that  we will be joined by some of the most exceptional musicians around today, and we are so excited to welcome them into our Smorgaschord community. Composer and clarinettist Mark Simpson is Artist in Focus, presenting a dazzling array of musical treats for us, ranging from his own work to a performance of Messiaen’s sublime Quartet for the End of Time.

We’re also delighted to feature award-winning violinist Charlotte Spruit, who performs a concert devoted to the music of the German Baroque. Anyone who has had the thrill of seeing Charlotte perform this music before will know that we are in for something full of detail, gorgeous imagination and spontaneity. 

But perhaps most important for us at Smorgaschord is that our concerts have a wonderful sense of joyous community about them. This year we are immensely excited to work with the extraordinary Damascus Rose Kitchen for the first time, an Oxford-based enterprise for Arabic-speaking refugee women. Planning a music festival is always so fascinating, but the highlight so far was paying them a visit to taste the food they’ll be bringing… trust us, this is something that cannot be missed!

We can’t wait to spend another beautiful midsummer’s day with you all—come join the fun!