Built in 1664-8 to a design by Sir Christopher Wren, the Sheldonian's main purpose is to provide a venue for the principle ceremonies of the University. Its links to Oxford's illustrious musical history can be traced back to performances in 1733 by Handel, and today it is the city's main venue for large classical music concerts. Despite the somewhat sparse facilities and basic seating arrangements, many audience members (and musicians) argue that there are few venues to rival it in terms of atmosphere and acoustic.
In the summer of 1998, the Holywell Music Room celebrated its 250th anniversary. The oldest custom-built concert hall in Europe, it opened its doors to the public for the first time in 1748. Designed by Thomas Camplin, Vice-Principal of St. Edmund Hall, the building was probably the brainchild of William Hayes, then Professor of Music at the University. More recently The Holywell has been the location for many hundreds of concerts featuring prestigious visiting musicians as well as many local groups and student performers.
The 12th century cathedral situated at the heart of Christ Church College is one of the oldest buildings in Oxford. Music has been a central part of the cathedral's activities since the founding of the choir in 1525, under the direction of John Taverner.
St Barnabas' is the large basilica-style church whose striking campanile dominates the approach to Oxford from the railway station. It has served the Jericho district since its foundation by Thomas and Martha Combe in the wake of the Oxford Movement in 1869. You are warmly invited to join us here in the worship of God through word and sacrament, enhanced by the traditional liturgy, music and ceremonial of the Anglican Catholic tradition in which we stand.
The Harris Manchester College Chapel is a Pre-Raphaelite jewel. The stained glass windows were all installed by the firm of Morris & Co. of Merton Abbey. The cartoons of the individual lights were designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones and made by William Morris. According to Pevsner's 'Buildings of England-Oxfordshire', 'The whole set of Burne-Jones windows in Manchester College Chapel of 1893-8 is... a pure joy'
The Chapel is hard to miss when you come into the College. It is a classic example of the Victorian Gothic revival, designed by George Gilbert Scott and consecrated in 1859. The interior is a beautiful and peaceful space, cleaned and restored in 2007. The Chapel also has a wonderful acoustic and is in much demand for musical concerts.
The College Chapel dates back to the end of the thirteenth century and stands at the heart of our ancient College as a witness to Christian worship over almost 750 years. The Chapel is also a popular venue for concerts and plays.
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