Christmas with Jethro Tull

Rock legend Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull is bringing The Christmas Jethro Tull concert to Salisbury Cathedral this winter, featuring Christmas-themed Jethro Tull tracks, well-loved classical pieces, and traditional music from the liturgy of the Church of England.

Ian Anderson, known throughout the world of rock music as the flute and voice behind the legendary Jethro Tull, is widely recognised as the man who introduced the flute to rock music.

Ian says of the show, “Whether your Christmas is a secular affair of gift-giving and family togetherness or a more worshipful recognition of one of the two biggest days in the Christian calendar, join us for some uplifting Christmas spirit, music, readings and maybe even a prayer or two.”

The self-professed non-believer nonetheless claims a huge affinity for the deeds and traditions of Christianity. In his support for the both the religion and the actual places of worship, he performs most years in our great cathedrals and churches – and a few little ones too!

“The bringing together of people of all backgrounds, cultures and faiths in this way is possible, perhaps, only under the auspices of modern Christianity, especially the Anglican Church. So, if I can help to draw people in to these beautiful and historic buildings to savour just a little of the spirit of Christmas, it seems like a worthwhile effort.

“100% of the sales of tickets go to the upkeep of the buildings and, perhaps, also in support of the musical liturgy of the cathedral. I try to balance the festive time of year in song with a few of the elements of an old-fashioned carol service. All delivered with good humour and good cheer. Grace me and, hopefully, a few special guests with your presence for some of the best-known repertoire of Jethro Tull and a few snippets of seasonal traditional church and Classical music.”

So, support your local place of worship and keep traditions flying – even in the face of an often materialistic world. Join Ian and his band for a moment of pre-christmas madness, goodness and togetherness.

This is a fundraising event for The Salisbury Cathedral Choral Foundation (Charity number 1058899).