Sanctuary & solidarity

SANSARA, United Strings of Europe and oud master Basel Saleh join forces to explore the themes of sanctuary and solidarity in a programme built around Caroline Shaw’s To the Hands.

Today, millions are forcibly displaced from their homes, set on perilous journeys in search of places of safety. Finding refuge depends on the kindness of others - individuals, communities and nations. But the longing for sanctuary is not always met with open arms. At the centre of the programme is Caroline Shaw’s To the Hands, with its guiding question ‘what are these wounds in the midst of our hands?’, alongside original material from Syrian oud master Basel Saleh. 

Featuring additional music by Hildur Guðnadóttir, Piers Connor Kennedy and Thomas Tallis, this is not only an offering of musical solidarity, but an invitation to reflect on our role in creating spaces of sanctuary. 

Guest Conductor Ellie Slorach