Joshua Bell and The Academy of St Martin in the Fields Perform at Hancher

Acclaimed violinist and orchestra bring joyful, inspiring performances to Iowa City

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Undeniably among the most celebrated violinists of his era, Joshua Bell is also music director of the chamber ensemble The Academy of St Martin in the Fields. The orchestra has gained worldwide acclaim for its joyful and inspiring performances as well as for a commitment to the musical freedom and expressiveness of its players. Bell and the orchestra will perform music by Camille Saint-Saëns, Antonin Dvořák, and Charles Ives as part of Hancher's 53rd season.

Why it matters

Joshua Bell and The Academy of St Martin in the Fields are renowned for their exceptional musicianship and ability to breathe new life into classical works. Their performance at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City provides a rare opportunity for Midwest audiences to experience the group's acclaimed artistry.

The details

Joshua Bell, one of the most celebrated violinists of his generation, serves as the music director for The Academy of St Martin in the Fields, a chamber ensemble that has gained worldwide acclaim for its joyful and inspiring performances. For their Hancher appearance, Bell and the orchestra will perform works by Camille Saint-Saëns, Antonin Dvořák, and Charles Ives.

  • The performance is part of Hancher's 53rd season.

The players

Joshua Bell

One of the most celebrated violinists of his era, Joshua Bell is also the music director of the chamber ensemble The Academy of St Martin in the Fields.

The Academy of St Martin in the Fields

A musical powerhouse chamber ensemble that has gained worldwide acclaim for its joyful and inspiring performances as well as for a commitment to the musical freedom and expressiveness of its players.

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The takeaway

Joshua Bell and The Academy of St Martin in the Fields' performance at Hancher Auditorium provides Midwest audiences a rare opportunity to experience the group's exceptional musicianship and ability to breathe new life into classical works.