September 2020
Goldberg Variations
--- POSTPONED ---- Since 1741 Bach’s Goldberg Variations have been regarded as one of the pinnacles of the keyboard repertoire. Bach was very specific about how the variations are to be performed: on a “a harpsichord with two manuals.” This is a rare opportunity to hear the entire work presented as Bach intended and by one of the leading harpsichordists of our time, Pieter-Jan Belder (Netherlands). “superb keyboard artistry and consummate technique.” MusicWeb International
Find out more »January 2021
Purcell Fantasias and Dances
Les Voix Humaines (Montreal) Purcell’s 16 Fantasias are the perfect example of melding of old and new. The exquisitely- balanced sound of consorted strings is peppered with virtuosic Italianate passages, operatic recitativo sections, and French dances designed to please all ears! This programme intersperses the Fantasias with dance movements from Purcell’s opera The Fairy Queen and concludes with an instrumental version of Dido’s Lament. “fully-digested and thoughtful, technically very accomplished interpretations.” ClassicalNet
Find out more »February 2021
Vivaldi’s Other Seasons
Mireille Lebel mezzosoprano Rudolfo Richter violin and direction Ensemble Castor (Austria) This light-hearted alternative to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons includes other concerts and vocal pieces by Vivaldi related to Nature--its sounds and powerful forces. Bird songs, tempests, pastoral life, and autumnal hunting are portrayed in turn. The programme starts with the aria Gelido in ogni vena which uses themes from the first movement of the familiar Winter Concerto. “lovely, imaginative performances on some sweet sounding instruments.” Gramophone
Find out more »March 2021
Handel’s Messiah
Ensemble Caprice (Montreal) Today it is often forgotten that Handel’s Messiah was composed for performance during Lent, not at Christmastide. Do not miss this rare opportunity to hear Handel’s greatest oratorio as he intended and when he intended. Hallelujah, indeed! “The music making by Ensemble Caprice was first rate.” New York Times
Find out more »April 2021
The Armed Man and the Virgin
Tallis Scholars (UK) Whoever the Armed Man (L'homme armé) originally was, he left a deep impression on late medieval Europe: over twenty mass settings are based on the melody which he inspired including one by Josquin. The balance of the programme is devoted to Mary and features Fayrfax's Eterne laudis lilium which ends with the most beautiful Amen in the repertoire. “as near extraterrestrial as you can get sitting in a concert hall.” The Observer
Find out more »