Concert programme to relocate after funding cuts

A concert programme has found a new home after funding support was withdrawn by a theological college in Oxford.

The BBC reports that SJE Arts, which has become known for its International Piano Series, had previously performed at the main chapel of the theological college St Stephen’s House. The college has said it is unable to host concerts beyond 30 June.

The auditorium at St John’s College, part of the University, will now host the concerts, which are due to take place this autumn.

Michèle Smith, director of SJE Arts, 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.”

In a statement, St Stephen’s House said it had given “close attention over the last year to succession planning for SJE Arts to secure its future”.

“Regrettably, the college concluded in November that it was unable to resource SJE Arts in a way that is within both our means and our charitable ends,” it said.

It added that it “remains committed to the use of the church of St John as a public amenity”.

St John’s College said the concert programme’s move to its “intimate and acoustically rich” auditorium would “enhance” its reach and impact while “maintaining its tradition of excellence”.