A little bit of history on The National Centre for Early Music
The Grade I listed building used to be a church. In fact, up until 1974, the National Centre for Early Music was known as St Margaret’s Church. It was founded sometime between the 11th and 12th centuries, with the south porch being the only surviving element of its initial design. The church is thought to be named after St Margaret of Antioch, a shepherdess who, in the 5th century, resisted pressure to marry the local pagan governor. Unfortunately, she was consequently beheaded, but her resistance was not forgotten.
What can you do at The National Centre for Early Music?
The National Centre For Early Music offers a rich programme full of concerts and even festivals, including The York Early Music Festival and The Beverley & East Riding Early Music Festival. You can get your tickets online, by telephone or in person. But you can also take a more active role and join the Cuppa and a Chorus community and chat with other members, sing and have cake! However, if you’re interested in using the venue for hire, it is fully accessible and can be adapted to a number of events such as concerts, weddings and conferences.
Besides its usual early music concerts, the charming venue has set its eyes on other genres as well. This season, it has partnered up with Fever’s Candlelight concerts that reimagine some of the most popular music ever written. From tributes to classical greats like Vivaldi and Mozart to modern-day icons in the likes of Taylor Swift and Queen, there is a Candlelight concert for everyone.
Is there any parking at the NCEM?
There is a small private car park available, but visitors are advised to use nearby car parks, such as Peel Street, Coppergate (which closes at 7 pm), Shambles (Q-Park), and Barbican (Q-Park).
How many people can the NCEM accommodate?
Comfortably, the main concert hall can accommodate about 250 people.
How old is the NCEM?
The building itself is around 900 years old, while the National Centre for Early Music (NCEM) has been established for over 20 years, opening in 2000. Due to the church’s long history, different parts were constructed at various times. Today, the NCEM still features a 12th-century Romanesque porch adorned with carvings of mythological beasts and animals, a striking Victorian red-brick bell tower, and beautiful stained glass windows from later periods
How to get to The National Centre for Early Music?
Situated in the city centre on Walmgate near Hotel Indigo, there are many bus and railway stations within reach. If you’re travelling from London or Manchester, you can reach the music centre in under two hours. What’s more, driving to the NCEM is convenient too, especially as there are three car parks nearby, such as Peel Street, Coppergate, and Shambles. But for the more environmentally-conscious guests, there are plenty of bike racks in the centre.
Nearby Venues
The NCEM office is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, unless closed for a private event. Whether you’re attending one of its thrilling festivals or enjoying a Candlelight tribute, the National Centre for Early Music should definitely be on your radar for entertainment in York. What’s more, it’s just a short walk from other impressive venues like York Minster, York Castle Museum, and York Art Gallery.