Wigmore Hall
36 Wigmore Street, W1 (box office 020 7935 2141)
Bond Street tube. Box office personal callers Apr-Oct
10am-8.30pm Mon-Sat; 10.30am-8pm Sun; Nov-Mar 10am-8.30pm Mon-Sat;
10.30am-5pm Sun; telephone bookings Apr-Oct 10am-7pm Mon-Sat; 1-6.30pm
Sun; Nov-Mar 10am-7pm Mon-Sat; 1-4pm Sun. Tickets ?5-?35. Credit AmEx, DC, MC, ?TC, V.
Built in 1901 for German piano manufacturer Friedrich Bechstein and
seized as enemy property during World War I, the building at 36 Wigmore
Street finally opened as the Wigmore Hall in 1917. The intimate
auditorium is attractively decorated – the cupola over the stage,
depicting the Soul of Music, is a wonder – and maintains a delightfully
old-fashioned atmosphere. Long may it continue to do so, if it means
the concerts and recitals – including the bargain-priced Monday
lunchtime series that is recorded for transmission on BBC Radio 3 -
continue to set such a superlative standard. The staff are friendly,
the ticket prices are manageable and the acoustics are impeccable,
while the occasional themed series adds a touch of spice. In short,
it’s a must-visit.
