Event Start Date: 14 March 2026

Since becoming one of the UK’s first Colleges of Sanctuary in 2021, Somerville has continued its long-standing commitment, dating back to the 1930s, to supporting sanctuary-seeking students and academics. Through the Sanctuary Scholarship Programme, the College has welcomed twenty-nine scholars from regions including Ukraine, Sudan, Ethiopia and Afghanistan.

The programme offers fully funded postgraduate places, covering both living costs and tuition fees, and continues to grow thanks to the generosity of our donors and alumni. We invite you to join us for a memorable evening of music in support of this vital work from 6-7pm, followed by a drinks reception. The concert will be curated by our Sanctuary Scholars and will include an exhibition reflecting their work and experiences, which may be viewed during the reception. All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to the Sanctuary Fund.

Our special programme below features an inspiring selection of British and American women composers performed by the Oxmoor International Chamber players: 

Florence Price: Fantasy no.1 in G minor for violin and piano

Elaine Fine: Three dances for horn and viola

Rebecca Clarke: Dumka concertante violin, viola, and piano

Amy Beach: Romance for violin and piano, OP. 23

Interval

Ethel Smyth: Trio for violin, horn, and pianoforte

Followed by a drinks reception

Programme and biographies can be found here.

Booking is now closed – Please email alumnievents@some.ox.ac.uk for any enquiries

Make a donation to our Sanctuary Scholarships here

Further reading?

VIIIs Dinner 2026

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Saturday 30th May 2026
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VIIIs Dinner 2026

Alumni Gardening Network visit to Gresgarth Hall Gardens

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Alumni Gardening Network visit to Gresgarth Hall Gardens

‘Behind the Lines’ Live: The Sanctuary Scholars

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3rd March 2026
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‘Behind the Lines’ Live: The Sanctuary Scholars