Apollo's Fire

Apollo's Fire, named after the classical god of music and the sun, is a renowned baroque ensemble based in the United States. Founded in 1992 by the award-winning harpsichordist and conductor Jeannette Sorrell, the ensemble is committed to the baroque ideal that music should evoke various emotions, or "Affekts," in its listeners. The group consists of a collective of creative artists who share Sorrell's passion for drama and rhetoric in music. Under the artistic leadership of Jeannette Sorrell, and with the assistance of Alan Choo as the Assistant Artistic Director, Apollo's Fire has established itself as a dynamic force in the realm of historically informed performance. The ensemble is composed of the Apollo's Fire Musicians and the Apollo's Singers, with additional contributions from guest artists, featured players, and visiting scholars. Apollo's Fire is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the arts, and operates out of the ARTSPLACE Community Arts Center. The organization also engages in a range of outreach and educational initiatives, including the Community Access Initiative, Family Concerts, the MOSAIC Project Diversity Initiative, and various education programs such as the Musettes Ensemble, Young Artist Apprentice Program, School Workshops, and the SIDE BY SIDE Chicago String Program. Additionally, Apollo's Fire has produced the "I Music Discovery Series" video and a children's book titled "A Spider Named Apollo." The ensemble's performance schedule is extensive, with a variety of subscription concerts and events planned for both Ohio and Chicago, including series like "Splendour in London," "Handel’s Israel in Egypt," "Nights in Venice," and "Bach’s Easter Oratorio." Apollo's Fire also offers Baroque Bistros, Family Concerts, and a Windy City Series in Chicago. Apollo's Fire has a significant presence on the international stage, with a touring schedule that includes both upcoming and past performances, as well as a variety of touring programs. The ensemble's recordings have received international acclaim, with their CD album of Monteverdi Vespers being highlighted for its exultant instrumental colors and described as a "stunning achievement" by critics. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors and supported by individual giving, special events, galas, legacy contributions, and government, foundation, and corporate support. Community engagement is further enhanced through partnerships with media and community organizations, and the ensemble encourages volunteer involvement. Apollo's Fire's dedication to bringing the vibrancy and emotional depth of baroque music to audiences has established it as a leading ensemble in the field, earning it the title of "the U.S.A.’s hottest baroque band" by Classical Music Magazine in the UK. With a commitment to historically informed performance and a vibrant, passionate approach to music, Apollo's Fire continues to captivate audiences around the world.