Franz Peter Schubert (1797-1828) grew-up in a supportive family where his schoolmaster father, Franz Theodor Schubert, and his older brother Ignaz, provided him with musical training on the viola. From there he went on to learn to play the organ at his local parish church. Schubert’s young talent eventually earned him a scholarship placement at the Stadtkonvikt, which was the premier boarding school for commoners. While there, he also earned a place as a singer in the Imperial Court chapel. At the Stadtkonvikt, Schubert’s music theory and composition teacher was none other than the famed court composer Antonio Salieri.

“The Trout”

The University Club of New York

Immerse yourself in the opulent sounds of the Baroque era with the "Voices of Versailles" concert, a highlight of the 2023/24 season presented by the Sebastians. This enchanting evening is scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 5pm, taking place at the historic Good Shepherd-Faith Presbyterian Church, located at 152 West 66th St., nestled between Broadway and Amsterdam.

"Voices of Versailles" promises a rich auditory feast, featuring the combined talents of the eight singers from the Yale Voxtet and the Sebastians’ core quartet, which includes two violins, a cello, and a harpsichord. The ensemble will be further enhanced with the addition of recorders, oboes, viola, violone, and theorbo, creating a full-bodied sound that is sure to transport the audience back to the grandeur of the French Baroque period.

The concert's program is centered around Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s "La Couronne de fleurs," and will also include works by Élisabeth Jacquet de La Guerre, Jean-Baptiste Lully, Henry Purcell, and Jean-Féry Rebel, among others. The performance is expected to last between 80 and 90 minutes and will proceed without an intermission, ensuring an uninterrupted experience of sublime music.

Performers for the evening include notable musicians such as Margaret Owens and Geoffrey Burgess on oboe and recorder, Daniel Lee and Nicholas DiEugenio on violin, Annie Garlid on viola, Ezra Seltzer on cello, Nathaniel Chase on violone, Charles Weaver on theorbo, and Jeffrey Grossman on harpsichord, alongside the talented vocalists of the Yale Voxtet.

In keeping with the Sebastians' commitment to accessibility and community engagement, students of any age can attend the concert for free, subject to ticket availability and proof of student status. Additionally, community comp tickets are available for those who wish to attend but may find the cost prohibitive.

The Sebastians prioritize the health and safety of performers, staff, and audience members. While the event is currently mask-optional, the organization remains vigilant and may adjust policies in response to local health conditions. Attendees are encouraged to stay informed of any changes and to make responsible decisions regarding their own health and safety.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the "Voices of Versailles" and be swept away by the beauty and elegance of French Baroque music. Reserve your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of historical musical treasures.

Annie Garlid

Events

Past events

Oct 30, 2024

“The Trout” · American Classical Orchestra

17 - 18 Nov, 2023

Voices of Versailles · The Sebastians

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