Concert programme relocates following funding cuts

A "prestigious" concert programme has found a new home after an Oxford college cut its funding.

SJE Arts has become known for its International Piano Series, which had previously been held at St Stephen's House's main chapel - St John the Evangelist Church.

The auditorium at St John's College in the city will now host the concerts, which are due to take place this autumn.

The college said the move to the "intimate and acoustically rich setting" would "enhance" the series' "reach and impact" while "maintaining its tradition of excellence".

Michèle Smith, SJE Arts director, said: "We are really looking forward to moving to the delightful auditorium at St John's, with its lovely Steinway D piano, and are already making plans about whom to invite for the first St John's series."

This year marks the 12th edition of the series, which Ms Smith said was "very popular" and had a "strong and enthusiastic following".

She previously told the BBC the news that St Stephen's could no longer resource concerts in its chapel was a "really sad loss".

In a statement, the theological college said it could no longer resource the event "in a way that is within both our means and our charitable ends".

The concerts will now relocate to St John's College, which was founded in 1555 and is one of Oxford's largest.

Prof Jason Stanyek, performing art fellow at St John's, said the college was "thrilled" to host the concerts.

He said the announcement "strengthens our vision of making the college a leading centre for exceptional musical experiences".

"The presence of internationally renowned pianists will undoubtedly inspire both students and audiences alike," he added.

St John's already hosts The World's Music at Oxford, a concert series it said was known for its "eclectic programming of global music traditions".

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