Locus Iste - Architecture, Mathematics and Music | Brighton Consort

There’s always been a strong connection between music and mathematics - the notes of the musical scales follow a strict mathematical law, and it’s notable the way that many mathematicians are also skilled musicians. Similarly, architecture is an art form which follows mathematical laws, both for aesthetic reasons and in the interests of safety. It’s sometimes said that the structure of much early church music reflects the structure of Gothic cathedrals, and works were often written with particular performance venues in mind.

In tonight’s concert, we take you from Reims Cathedral in the 14th century to Westminster Cathedral in the early 20th century. On the way we pause to dip into The Art of Fugue by JS Bach, surely one of the most mathematically-influenced composers of all time, excerpts from which will be played by the young harpsichordist Thomas Allery, who’s well known to Brighton audiences through his appearances in Brighton Early Music Festival as a member of the young group 'Ensemble Hesperi.'