Sacred Arts Festival Music at St Giles': James Macmillan – Ninian

Sacred Arts Festival Music at St Giles': James Macmillan – Ninian

Sir James Macmillan, Calum Robertson and Jack OadesProfessional company

90 minutesCathedral
Ninian, a concerto for clarinet and orchestra with Calum Robertson playing clarinet and Jack Oades playing the organ. The three movements of this astonishing but rarely performed work, commissioned in 1997 to mark 1600 years since St Ninian, are based on some of the strange and evocative tales about the saint written many years after his death. Uniquely for this performance, the original orchestral part has been transcribed for organ by Jack Oades. The recital will be introduced by Sir James MacMillan.

About Sir James Macmillan, Calum Robertson and Jack Oades

This Edinburgh Festival Fringe concert presents Ninian, a concerto for clarinet and orchestra, with Calum Robertson on clarinet and Jack Oades on organ. The work has three movements and was commissioned in 1997 to mark sixteen hundred years since St Ninian. Its themes draw on strange and evocative tales about the saint written many years after his death. For this performance, Jack Oades has transcribed the original orchestral part for organ, making it a unique interpretation. The recital will be introduced by Sir James MacMillan, who composed the work.

Why see this show?

A rare opportunity to hear a seldom-performed sacred concerto in a cathedral setting, presented in a specially adapted version for clarinet and organ. Sir James MacMillan himself introduces the performance, making this an occasion of genuine artistic distinction.

Event Details

Thursday 20 August 2026

All performances at 19:30

90 minutes

3 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Ticket Price

£20 (15)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the performance?

The performance runs for 90 minutes.

Where does the concert take place?

The concert takes place at the Cathedral venue.

What is the age guidance for this event?

The event is suitable for ages 5 and above.

What are the ticket prices?

Tickets are £20, with a concession rate of £15.

What makes this performance unique?

For this performance, the original orchestral part has been transcribed for organ by Jack Oades, making it a one-of-a-kind interpretation of the concerto.

Who introduces the recital?

The recital will be introduced by Sir James MacMillan, the composer.

About This Music Performance

Sacred Arts Festival Music at St Giles': James Macmillan – Ninian is a music performance at Cathedral during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 90 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Enjoy live music in Edinburgh's atmospheric venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full band performances, each show offers a unique musical experience.

Venue: Cathedral

Cathedral is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Standing venues - arrive early for best spots
  • Check if seats are unreserved or allocated
  • Some venues allow drinks in the performance space
  • Merchandise often available after the show

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £20

Age Guidance: 5+

Content Warnings: None

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Sacred Arts Festival Music at St Giles': James Macmillan – Ninian represents the musical diversity that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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