Saturday 10 October 2026, 7.30pm

Spem In Alium: I Fagiolini at 40

Presented by Saffron Hall

Tallis’ famous choral masterpiece Spem in Alium, a motet for 40 voices, is a work like no other. 

We are beguiled by the glittering individual vocal threads, by blocks of sound being passed from choir to choir and overwhelmed by the cumulative power when all voices sing together. It’s an extraordinary listening experience and the centrepiece of a programme by early music experts I Fagiolini, who wrap it in Renaissance highlights from England, Italy and Spain for multiple choirs. It’s a sequence of opulent yet intricate sacred music that can switch between seductive intimacy and surround-sound grandeur in a heartbeat.  '..engulfs the senses just as it must have done in Benevoli’s day' wrote BBC Music Magazine (Recording of the Month *****) on an I Fagiolini’s recording of his music.

Important Visitor Information: Foyer Building Works

Essential building works are currently taking place in our foyer, meaning some areas and facilities will be temporarily unavailable. Please read the following information before your visit.

Entrances
The entrance by Saffron Screen will be closed. Please park as usual and then follow the pathway around the side of the building to 'Entrance 2’ or the main entrance at the front of the building. These will be clearly signposted.

Bar
Our bar is currently closed . A temporary bar will be available in the Rotunda offering a reduced selection of drinks. Please note that we will only be able to accept card payments.

Foyer Seating
The mezzanine level is closed, and the Rotunda is being used as a temporary bar. This means foyer seating will be limited. We will aim to open the auditorium as early as possible to allow you to take your seat shortly after arrival.

Toilets
D corridor toilets will not be accessible. Please use the alternative toilets as signposted.

Our team and volunteers will be on hand to assist with directions and answer any questions during your visit.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these temporary arrangements and thank you for your patience and understanding while the essential works are carried out.

Supporters

This concert is made possible by David & Jane Richardson

Performance information

Running time

1 hour 40 minutes

Content warnings

Age Guidance 7+

This event is not recommended for children under 7 years old. Children under 5 years old will not be admitted to this performance.

Booking information

Seating style

This event has tiered stalls and balcony seating

Discounts

Under 25s can purchase half price tickets for this show.

Leave a legacy

Help to safeguard the magic of Saffron Hall for future generations by leaving a gift in your Will

Nicola Benedetti teaching a student.

Programme and performers

Programme

  • Victoria Alma Redemptoris 6 mins
  • Benevoli Missa Benevola for 4 choirs: Kyrie & Gloria 14 mins
  • Monteverdi Salve, O Regina 6 mins
  • Tallis Spem in alium 9 mins
  • Benevoli Missa Benevola: Credo & Agnus Dei 16 mins
  • Monteverdi Lauda Jerusalem 4 mins
  • Gibbons O clap your hands 5 mins
  • Tallis Spem in alium (repeat) 9 mins

Performers

  • I Fagiolini
  • Robert Hollingworth director

Gift vouchers & memberships

Information for your visit

Saturday 10 October 2026, 7.30pm

Schedule

All timings are approximate and will be updated closer to the show date. Please check the website on the day of the performance for up-to-date information.

Latecomers can usually be admitted at a suitable gap within the performance.

Pre-show shuttle bus

6.30pm - 7.30pm
Operating from Audley End Station to Saffron Hall. This service is free to use, with no need to book in advance.

When to arrive

6.30pm - 7.15pm
We have over 400 free parking spots for anyone driving.

Foyer opens

6.30pm
Enjoy a drink at the bar before the auditorium opens.

Auditorium opens

7pm
Get your tickets ready for checking, find your seats, sit back and relax.

Show starts

7.30pm

Interval

Interval (20 mins)

Show ends

9.10pm (approx)

Post-show shuttle bus

9.10pm – 10.10pm
Operating from Saffron Hall to Audley End Station

Content warnings

Age Guidance 7+

This event is not recommended for children under 7 years old. Children under 5 years old will not be admitted to this performance.

Location

Saffron Hall

Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4UH

Transport

Shuttle bus

Operating from Audley End Station to Saffron Hall. This service is free to use, with no need to book in advance.
More info

Additional information

Cloakroom

We are unable to allow any bags into the performance space which are larger than a hand bag or small backpack. Unfortunately our cloakroom will not be in operation.

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Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know about visiting Saffron Hall including getting here, parking, the shuttle bus and more

Accessibility at Saffron Hall

Find out about our accessible seating and how to book either online, via email or over the phone

Parking

We have over 400 free parking spaces on site for our visitors

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