Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
The band of violins: adventures in
English music 1609-1692
The Anvil
Tue 7 October 2008, 7.45pm
Locke Music from The Enchanted Island
and The Tempest
Purcell Ayres for the Theatre
Suite from Abdelezar
Music from King Arthur and The Fairy Queen
plus music by William Brade, John Adson and Thomas Baltzar
Purcell Ayres for the Theatre
Suite from Abdelezar
Music from King Arthur and The Fairy Queen
plus music by William Brade, John Adson and Thomas Baltzar
Elizabeth Kenny theorbo
Pavlo Beznosiuk violin/director
Rivalry between the English and French is not a new phenomenon, and has reared its head in some unusual ways. Charles II was determined that England would have a band of violins to rival that of the French, and this resulted in Henry Purcell having twelve violins at his disposal for use at the theatre – using them in famous pieces such as King Arthur and The Fairy Queen. This programme explores the colours of the band of violins in various guises, from rhythm band through to sublime virtuosity, promising an intriguing and entertaining evening.