The Society of Strange and Ancient Instruments

Sound House

Francis Bacon, 17th-century philosopher, statesman and visionary, is widely regarded as the father of modern science. However, his investigations into the nature of sound are little known. He was intrigued by seemingly magical effects such as echoes and sympathetic vibrations and sought to explain them through a series of experiments in, and observations of, sound.

Combining modern sound technology with ancient instruments, The Society of Strange and Ancient Instruments explores the aural illusions that so intrigued Francis Bacon with fresh interpretations of 17th-century music linked by newly composed pieces. The performers play unusual and historically appropriate instruments including the mysterious violone, the jangling bray harp and the little known viola bastarda.

1 hour 50 minutes including interval.