Southern Consort
The period instrument ensemble of Southern Sinfonia
Southern Consort is the period-instrument arm of Southern Sinfonia
Drawing on the orchestra’s deep roots in historically informed performance. It reflects a strand of our musical identity that has been part of our work since the beginning — shaped in no small part by the influence of our Founding Patron, Sir Roger Norrington, a pioneering figure in the early music movement.
Performing repertoire from the Baroque and Classical eras on original instruments or faithful replicas, Southern Consort brings the past to life with insight, style and expressive vitality. From the intimacy of Purcell to the drama of Haydn and the spiritual depth of Bach, the ensemble offers historically grounded performances that remain engaging and relevant today.
Historically Informed, Creatively Alive
Southern Consort embraces the principles of historically informed performance (HIP) — not as a fixed doctrine, but as a way of approaching music with fresh ears. Every element, from gut strings and natural horns to period bowing and ornamentation, helps recreate the textures and colours that composers of the time would have known.
The result is music that feels immediate and vibrant — rediscovered rather than reimagined — connecting listeners with the spirit of the original.
Part of the Southern Sinfonia Family
Southern Consort has long been a natural extension of Southern Sinfonia. While the full orchestra continues to perform a broad repertoire on modern instruments, Southern Consort provides a focused platform for exploring earlier music with the specialist tools and techniques it deserves.
Together, the two ensembles reflect a shared commitment to artistic excellence, stylistic integrity, and meaningful engagement with audiences throughout the South of England and beyond.
Up next: Bach’s Christmas Oratorio with the Bath Minerva Choir on Saturday 13 December.
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