Founded by John Lubbock in 1967, the Orchestra of St John's (OSJ) has an ambitious vision: "Lives changed by the emotional power of music". Over the years they have realised this in the form of hundreds of events supporting different communities and minority groups, including autism, adults with dementia, and refugees.
The orchestra has an exciting series of Christmas concerts planned to round off the year, including carols, New Year's Eve festivities, and highlights from Handel's Messiah. The above is from Messiah: Part III to give you a flavour of what to expect. You can also listen to their online Bach concert between now and 8th December.
OSJ has been running the Music For Autism programme for 20 years, where small groups of members of the professional orchestra deliver accessible workshops and performances in special schools, specifically designed for young people with autism.
This transformative work has been able to continue online despite coronavirus-related restrictions this year, thanks in part to the generosity of the community (and the fortunate fact that some of the musicians live together, so household mixing wasn't a problem!)
OSJ's live concert programme has necessarily been much reduced this year so fundraising has been more difficult - so if you enjoyed today's video, please do consider donating to their Big Give appeal (running between now and 8th Dec) to double the value of your donation.
Welcome to Daily Info’s 2023 Advent Calendar – 24 days of festive tips, free activities & local shopping suggestions!
This year's calendar offers a mix of Christmas suggestions, taking in traditions in Oxford and the wider area, and free activities & events in the build up to the big day.
