Standing as effectively a ruin for decades after WWII, St Johns Smith Square underwent restoration to become one of London’s most unique and impressive concert halls. A masterpiece of English baroque architecture, designed and built by Thomas Archer, Smith Square’s initial purpose as a church and has taken to classical concerts incredibly well, with its exceptional acoustics that in theory require minimal amplification.
In its relatively short history as a concert hall, the last 60 years has seen some of the finest classical talent perform in its walls, including Yo Yo Ma, William Walton, Daniel Barenboim, and Itzhak Perlman, presenting ranges of classical from chamber orchestras, choirs, and period instrument groups.
As a premier London venue, the schedule is always packed to maximal allowance. Click here to see what they have on in the next few months. Of course they regularly hosts acts like the National Symphony Orchestra and City of London Sinfonia, but look out for their more alternative events which stray more toward the world of popular music.
Down in the crypt, you can find a semi-regular jazz event, of course titled ‘Jazz in the Crypt’, and otherwise can find young guitarists performing classics from Drake and Jobim. Furthermore, Smith Square hosts talks from intellectuals on topics ranging from politics to philosophy to international relations. The vision here is to be a cosmopolitan intellectual and artistic centre in London’s music scene. And they succeed.
Details
- Address:
- Smith Square
- SW1P 3HA
- Transport:
- Westminster