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A series of Candlelight concerts at St Mary's Church will pay tribute to the hits of iconic pop and rock artists of the modern day.
Tamsin Salfrais - Staff Writer
This May and June, the usual songs of praise sung at Marylebone’s St Mary’s Church will change a little. Instead of hymns and gospel melodies, those seated at the pews will hum along to classical tributes to modern-day hitmakers, performed by string and piano performers – who’ll be lit up on stage by the glow of candlelight, no less. These Candlelight concerts at St Mary’s Church will offer new, pared-back versions of recognisable hits; if you want to hear them for yourself, you can check out the lineup here, or read on below.
On May 13, St Mary’s Church will be all Yellow… under the glow of candlelight, that is, for a Coldplay Candlelight concert. A talented string quartet will treat you to a full hour of the familiar hits in Coldplay’s back catalogue, including Fix You, Don’t Panic, and Sky Full Of Stars. Prepare to be whisked away to Paradise as the evening unfolds. Tickets are available here.
Just one night later on May 14, (then again on June 18,) enjoy the musical evening of your Dreams: a Candlelight tribute to the legendary Fleetwood Mac. The rock band’s iconic tunes will be given a more classical twist, as they are performed by a pianist and violinist duo. Expect to hear Gypsy, Go Your Own Way and Gold Dust Woman – to name just a few – in a brand-new way. Intrigued? Book your seat here.
The third of St Mary’s Church Candlelight concerts will celebrate the powerful ballads of Adele – and Rumour Has It, it’ll be a good ‘un. In the absence of her distinctive voice, an incredible string ensemble will perform unique renditions of the songwriter’s chart-topping tracks by candlelight. You’ll hear Rolling In The Deep, Set Fire To The Rain, Chasing Pavements, and many others across 60 minutes on June 17. Find your tickets here.
Each concert will have two shows on the night, one at 7pm and another at 9pm, so whether you have an early dinner, or make a night of it, it’s up to you. St Mary’s Church enjoys an enviable Central London location in Marylebone, with Paddington, Mayfair and Regent’s Park close by. At its exterior, the Grade I-listed building has a distinctive rounded stone portico and round tower, while inside high ceilings, grand columns, and incredibly intricate architecture await – the most mesmerising of settings, further enjoyed under the glow of soft candlelight. So, if you love the amalgamation of old and new, these Candlelight concerts are for you.