This Sceptered Isle: British Song – Claire Booth & Ensemble 360

What is This Sceptered Isle: British Song?

This Sceptered Isle: British Song is an afternoon concert celebrating the richness and variety of British vocal and chamber music, performed as part of the Sheffield Chamber Music Festival at the Playhouse.

The programme brings together song and chamber works by some of Britain’s most distinctive composers, tracing a line from the influence of Henry Purcell through Benjamin Britten to major modern voices of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Who is performing?

The concert features soprano Claire Booth, praised by The Scotsman for her “radiant, rapturous, wonderfully nuanced performances”, alongside Ensemble 360, one of Sheffield’s leading chamber music groups.

Together, they present a programme that balances expressive song with substantial instrumental works.

What music will be performed?

The programme includes:

• Benjamin Britten – Phantasy Quartet

• Britten / Purcell – She Loves and She Confesses Too, Oh Solitude, Bess of Bedlam

• Colin Matthews – Seascapes (written in celebration of the composer’s 80th birthday)

• Oliver Knussen – Whitman Settings

• William Walton – Piano Quartet

The selection highlights both lyrical intimacy and bold chamber writing, offering a broad portrait of British musical identity.

Why is this concert special?

This programme showcases Claire Booth in repertoire for which she is particularly admired, from Britten’s powerful reimaginings of Purcell to Colin Matthews’ evocative depictions of the sea. Paired with Walton’s expansive Piano Quartet, the concert offers depth, contrast, and a strong sense of national musical character.

It’s an ideal choice for audiences interested in British music, song, and thoughtfully curated chamber concerts in Sheffield.

Who is this event for?

This event will appeal to:

• Classical song and chamber music fans

• Listeners interested in British composers

• Daytime concertgoers

• Anyone seeking high-quality cultural things to do in Sheffield

🎟 Tickets and full event details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/this-sceptered-isle-british-song