Cellist

Violist

Experience an intimate evening of French-inspired chamber music with the Portland Baroque Orchestra's presentation of "Bach & Telemann: French Finesse." This program showcases the exquisite artistry of two esteemed German composers, Johann Sebastian Bach and Georg Philipp Telemann, who were not only contemporaries but also friends. Their works are infused with the sonic richness and rhythmic nuance of the French style, creating a unique vibrancy that captivates the senses.

The evening features Telemann’s Paris Quartet No. 1 in D Major, a piece that exudes graceful elegance and showcases the intricate interplay between the gamba, violin, flute, and harpsichord. Complementing this is Bach’s Trio Sonata in G Major, BWV 1038, which highlights his mastery of counterpoint and melodic development. The program also includes Jean-Philippe Rameau’s Concerto No. 5 in D Minor from "Pièces de clavecin en concerts," a work that blends the harpsichord with other instruments in a richly textured dialogue. Additionally, the Trio Sonata No. 1 in G Minor by Elisabeth Claude Jacquet de la Guerre offers a glimpse into the innovative spirit of one of the few prominent female composers of the Baroque era.

Under the artistic direction of Julian Perkins, who will also perform on the harpsichord, the ensemble features Toma Iliev on violin and Joanna Blendulf on violoncello. Together, they bring to life the intricate and expressive qualities of these Baroque masterpieces, inviting listeners to embark on a journey through an exotic musical landscape.

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Bach & Telemann: French Finesse

Sanctuary Hall at First Congregational UCC

The experience of exile can take many forms–from banishment to estrangement to homesickness. The despair of being unwillingly separated from all that is familiar resonates deeply in the human soul. Voices and viols unite in 16th-century polyphony from Spain, France, Holland, Italy, England, and Germany that depicts both physical and psychological exile. From well-known composers Dowland, Rossi, and Ferrabosco to the less known Ruimonte, Camphuysen, and Cavendish, the ensemble has sought out a variety of perspectives on displacement and isolation. Two New England composers, Will Ayton and Roy Sansom, contribute contemporary perspectives on ancient themes. As our society experiences social fragmentation, massive migration, and wars between neighbors, the themes of exile and separation resonate with many of us. This concert connects us across time with people who experienced similar upheavals and sought hope through music just as we do today. Learn More

So Far From Home

The Chapel at West Parish

Emmanuel Church

St. Anne's Episcopal Church

To celebrate PBO’s abundance of talent, each season will now feature a program curated by an orchestra member. First up is our esteemed leader, Carla Moore, in a concert that delves into Georg Philipp Telemann’s vast musical cupboard. We explore a kaleidoscope of textures and styles, from the musings of solo lute to a declamatory overture for the full cohort of strings. Further contrast abounds with French and Italian works by two of Telemann’s likely influencers, Joseph Bodin de Boismortier and Francesco Durante.

Telemann's Sublime Strings: Carla's Podium

First Baptist Church Portland

Reed College

Our 47th season kicks off with Ensemble Mirable, who offer us a treasure trove of underappreciated Baroque favorites. Pieces composed by somewhat familiar names such as Dieterich Buxtehude and Arcangelo Corelli are combined with those by Biagio Marini, Jean Zewalt Triemer, Sylvius Leopold Weiss, Dietrich Becker, Andrea Falconieri, and many, many more to create a fascinating mosaic of Baroque masterworks.

Ensemble Mirable

First Congregational Church of Berkeley

First Presbyterian Church

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church

Some things just get better. The Wildcat Viols have been around for a bit, and know what they are doing with those instruments. The program will include music by Purcell, Locke and Legrenzi, precise details tba, but you know it’ll be good.

Joanna Blendulf

Cellist, Violist

Events

Past events

Oct 18, 2024

Bach & Telemann: French Finesse · Portland Baroque Orchestra

11 - 13 Jun, 2024

So Far From Home · Society For Historically Informed Performance

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