About this Event
✨ Join us on May 9th at the striking University of Reading for ’Our precious concert’ – one of our most beloved and best-selling programmes!
Experience the majestic and timeless music of the legendary Lord of the Rings films in a breathtaking concert that will transport audiences straight into the heart of Tolkien’s universe. Howard Shore’s iconic soundtrack has captivated millions worldwide, and now, we bring it to you!
Performed by the modern orchestra Mystery Ensemble, this magical evening will transport you instantly into the heart of Tolkien’s universe, where elves, hobbits, and dwarves roam. The virtuoso playing of the musicians will bring to life the stirring, powerful, and deeply emotional compositions of Howard Shore, the three-time Academy Award winner, whose work shaped the very essence of Peter Jackson’s cinematic masterpiece.
About the venue
The Great Hall at the University of Reading is a distinguished ceremonial and cultural space located within the historic London Road Campus. Opened in 1905 as part of the University’s original buildings, the Hall reflects Edwardian architectural elegance and academic heritage, standing as one of Reading’s most recognisable landmarks.
The interior is defined by its high vaulted ceiling, rich wood panelling, and grand sense of symmetry, creating an atmosphere that feels both formal and inviting. Large arched windows allow natural light to illuminate the space, enhancing its architectural character while preserving a warm and dignified ambience.
With seating for up to approximately 500 guests, The Great Hall offers a versatile setting for concerts, orchestral programmes, recitals, and ceremonial events. Its balanced acoustics and generous proportions allow sound to resonate clearly throughout the room, making it particularly well-suited to instrumental ensembles and choral works.
Set within one of the region’s leading academic institutions, The Great Hall combines intellectual tradition with cultural vitality — a venue where scholarship, architecture, and live performance meet in refined harmony.
Duration: 60 minutes
Doors open at least 30 minutes before the concert.
Out of respect for guests and performers, late entry may not be permitted. We cannot guarantee your original seats after the concert begins.
Age restriction: 6+
About Mystery Ensemble
Mystery Ensemble is a group of professional musicians performing unique programs in non-standard venues around the UK and Europe.
Experience outstanding works from different eras, experimental music, tributes, and world soundtracks of films and series, as well as absolutely unique programs and immersive shows. All music is presented in the author’s arrangements. With the possibility of independent program selection, unexpected locations, and the flexibility of the format, our team of professional musicians is inspired to bring their favourite music to life.
Founded in 2021, our contemporary music studio has grown rapidly, with over 40 shows in the UK in its first year of performing. Our founder, Almin Alexander, has devoted more than 12 years to the music industry and the development of cultural initiatives worldwide, working with many outstanding musicians and musical groups. The ensemble’s repertoire is incredible. Just look at some of the programs so dearly loved by our viewers: these are tribute concerts of such great composers as Ludovico Einaudi, Hans Zimmer, John Williams, Ólafur Arnalds, Joe Hisaishi, or the minimalists’ John Cage and David Lang, along with At the same time, the ensemble performs popular soundtracks from sensational TV shows and movies: Wednesday, The Young Pope, Harry Potter, a variety of Disney and Pixar films, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit saga, Spencer, Star Wars and others. There is also the unique music of Enigma, Enya, combined with neoclassical music, or world rock hits, and tributes to the legendary Michael Jackson, Queen and the Beatles. For lovers of the classics, the ensemble collection features music by W.A. Mozart, J.S. Bach, L.V. Beethoven, R. Wagner, I. Strauss, P.I. Tchaikovsky, S.V. Rachmaninov, and other key composers. And much more. Every month, the studio releases new programs and updates the existing repertoire.
For some projects, the team gathers as part of a chamber or small symphony orchestra.
Join us and experience the creative energy and passion that drives our team to bring music to life in unforgettable ways!
Programme
Max Richter — On the Nature of Daylight
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Spring
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Summer
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Autumn
Max Richter — The New Four Seasons — Vivaldi Recomposed Winter
*Please note that the programme is subject to changes
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road Campus, Reading, United Kingdom
GBP 20.00 to GBP 40.00
