Appeal to enhance and restore the oldest concert hall in Europe.

The Holywell Music Room is the oldest concert hall in Europe; it was built by public subscription in 1748.  Its celebrated acoustic owes everything to an innovative design that has ensured its enduring position at the forefront of chamber music over 250 years. 

Phase I of the restoration of the Holywell Music Room –
Following the first phase of renovations in the Summer 09, the Holywell Music Room re-opened as planned in mid-September for the beginning of the Autumn concerts.  In addition to the historic restoration of key features, the renovations have brought considerable benefit for audiences, with a more spacious entrance hall and a more user-friendly box office. Externally, the superb new door case, the new railings, the many repairs to the stone masonry and the external lighting will be appreciated as a real gain for the City of Oxford.

Some further work is still necessary but the hall will not have to be closed again and this work should be completed soon. 

Many music and local organisations have been very supportive of the Appeal.  Our concluding public fund-raising concert for Phase I was on Friday 20th November with the celebrated pianist Ian Brown and the Pavlova Wind Quintet.  Playing to a full house the proceeds were donated to the Appeal.