AUGUST 2023 EVENTS AT HANDEL HENDRIX HOUSE, BROOK STREET
Credit: Christopher Ison
If you’re looking for things to do in Mayfair throughout August and September, why not visit Handel Hendrix House on Brook Street? The house has announced an exciting programme of events. Handel’s London home has now been fully restored and has been open since May, along with the flat of his next-door neighbour, rock legend Jimi Hendrix.
Handel Hendrix House is open from Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 17.00pm, and tickets are £14 for adults, £10 for students and free for the under 16s (accompanied by an adult). Tickets can be purchased in advance on the website, or on the day at the museum.
Credit: Michael Bowles-Handel Hendrix House
What’s On?
Wednesday - Talk at 11am
This summer, hear all about Handel's ties with the Royal family and the stories behind the writing of the Coronation Anthem in Handel's most private room of the house, his bedroom. Join the Assistant Curator, followed by a Q&A. Duration: 20mins.
Thursday - All Day
Enjoy all that Handel Hendrix House has to offer, including a unique audio-visual display that brings to life the writing of Messiah, family activities and insight into history from knowledgeable volunteer room stewards. Keep an eye on our social channels for news of occasional open rehearsals of Baroque music by emerging talent in Handel's Dining room, where he would have entertained guests, rehearsed, and performed surrounded by friends.
Friday - Live Guitar in Jimi's Bedroom, 11am-1pm
Immerse yourself in the sounds of the 1960s on Fridays in Jimi's bedroom. Our guitarists will fill the rooms with blues and give you a taste of what it would have sounded like when Jimi lived here. Jimi and Kathy's flat would be constantly filled with music. From playing his extensive record collection on his record player to jamming with friends such as George Harrison, the flat was buzzing with music and creativity.
Saturday - Activities & Music, 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm
The studio will be set-up seasonally with activities for children to enjoy during family visits. This summer, the theme is "Coronation" and you will find activities such as crown and bunting making. In Handel’s day, the finest and most famous musicians rehearsed for his operas in his dining room in Brook Street. Experience the vibrancy and intimacy of live music in this space during our weekend slots as musicians perform music by Handel and his contemporaries on the harpsichord, with other historical instruments and singers.
Sunday - Activities & Music, 1pm-3pm
Visit on Sunday for family activities and baroque performances, please see above.
Saturday Jam Session - 10:30am-3pm
On the first Saturday of the month, resident guitarist Nigel Jones will present a talk, workshop and jam session live from Hendrix's bedroom. Bring your guitar! Next sessions: 5th August, 2nd September, 7th October, 4th November and 2nd December 2023.
21st-24th September - Festival
Tickets are available for the Handeliade Festival of Handel and the 18th century, which takes place at Handel Hendrix House and Boughton House in Northamptonshire, one of England's finest stately homes. The festival includes a performance of Handel's Acis and Galatea by The English Concert, solo recitals by harpsichordists Julian Perkins and Steven Devine and historical talks by author and broadcaster Dan Cruickshank, author Jonathan Keates and international academics Ellen Harris and Peter Kerber.
Festival goers will enjoy exclusive access to Boughton House, with performances taking place in its stunning Great Hall throughout the estate.
A four-day package is available for £1,495, including transport and two nights' accommodation and meals. Day passes for the events on Saturday 23 or Sunday 24 September are available from £250. Places are limited and further information about how to book is available can be found here.
Handel Hendrix House, 25 Brook Street, London W1K 4HB
