Biography

Academy of St Martin in the Fields has an enthusiasm for fresh, brilliant interpretation of the world’s most loved classical music.
 
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields - one of the finest chamber orchestras in the world - is renowned for its polished and refined sound, rooted in outstanding musicianship. Formed in 1958 from a group of leading London musicians, and working without a conductor, the Academy gave its first performance in its namesake church on 13th November 1959. Today, the Academy performs some 100 concerts around the world each year, with as many as 15 tours each season.  In 1993, the Academy became the first and only orchestra to be awarded the Queen’s Award for Export.

The Academy’s partnership with its founder Sir Neville Marriner remains the most recorded pairing of orchestra and conductor and, with over 500 recordings under its belt, the Academy is one of the most recorded chamber orchestras in the world. Originally directed by Sir Neville from the leader’s chair, the collegiate spirit and flexibility of the original small, conductorless ensemble remains an Academy hallmark. This tradition continues today with the appointment of virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell as its new Music Director.

Alongside its performances with Life President Sir Neville, Principal Guest Conductor Murray Perahia, and Music Director Joshua Bell, the orchestra continues to collaborate with some of today’s most thrilling musicians including Julia Fischer, Julian Rachlin, Janine Jansen and Anthony Marwood.  Recent touring activities have included a London series features Gabriela Montero, Joshua Bell and Anthony Marwood; European tours with Murray Perahia, Jaime Martin, Sir Neville Marriner, Julia Fischer and Håkan Hardenberger; and a 15-city American tour with Joshua Bell.  

In tandem with its London performances and international tours, the Academy has initiated Outward Sound, a programme of outreach activities open to participants of all ages, backgrounds and abilities which seeks to connect with the communities in which it performs. Outward Sound brings music-making opportunities to those who otherwise may not have access to music.