The York Waits - Ancient Music for the Festive Season

York WaitsSunday 5th December 2021 at 3.30pm

The York Waits .
 

The York Waits take their name from the ancient city band of York, the earliest evidence for which we find in 14th century records. Before they turned to music full time the waits had been night watchmen and, although their guard duties diminished, they continued to keepe the night watches in the weeks leading up to Christmas, playing at various points to mark the hours and wake the citizens. In York as in many towns, they were employed by the Lord Mayor as the city’s own band of musicians, paid and liveried by the corporation to play on public occasions. The band is known to have been in continuous existence for at least five hundred years until abolition in 1836.

Today’s York Waits have revived the band as it was in its heyday in the 16th century, playing a wide repertoire of period European music as well as their own arrangements of popular dance and ballad tunes.

A wonderful opportunity not to be missed.

Tickets cost £12 (£10 concessions) and are available from Wentworth Post Office in early November or by calling 01226 744084.

We rely on you to ensure that you are fit and well before arriving for the concert. Hand sanitisation will be offered on entry to the church and Face Coverings will be advised until seated. Unfortunately, there will be no refreshments available, in order to minimise movement around the church. Naturally, should the Government decide to enforce any restrictions they will be followed. We are sure that these simple considerations to Covid19 will not affect at all your enjoyment of these splendid concerts and we are again looking forward to meeting you there.