Gurdjieff Ensemble

The Internationally acclaimed Gurdjieff Ensemble is the quintessential expression of Armenian folk and traditional music – music saturated in atmosphere, landscape and mystical expression.

The group comprise some of the best musicians in Armenia, playing traditional Armenian and Middle Eastern instruments. They explore a wide range of material, from ancient and medieval Armenian spiritual music, troubadour songs from the Caucasus, music from the Middle East, and works by contemporary composers inspired by the music of the region. Their music is haunting, delicate, powerfully hypnotic, virtuosic, and profoundly beautiful.

The group’s debut album on ECM (2011) won many awards. They have since performed across the globe, garnering a worldwide reputation for their impeccable musicianship, authentic interpretations and, ultimately, their powerfully moving music. They have since recorded two more albums for ECM and this is their first time in the UK.

Our Head of Programming, Ben Spencer says: “We are so thrilled the Gurdjieff Ensemble will be performing at St George’s, the perfect acoustic space for their music. It is not straightforward these days bringing such a large ensemble to the UK and we are grateful to the many people – their agent, other UK venues, Songlines festival, to name a few – for making it happen. This will be an extraordinary and unique concert shining a light on the deeply evocative and beautiful soundworlds of Armenia.”