Portland's music lovers, mark your calendars! This season, the Portland Baroque Orchestra and Oregon Symphony are bringing Antonio Vivaldi's timeless compositions to life in a series of captivating events. From the evocative 'Autumn Light' concert opening, featuring Vivaldi's 'Autumn' and 'Winter' at Reed College, to the Oregon Symphony’s performance of 'The Four Seasons' at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and the enchanting 'D’amore' at Sanctuary Hall, every event promises to be a feast for the senses. The season concludes with a grand finale of Pergolesi's 'Stabat Mater' and Vivaldi's 'Summer,' ensuring an unforgettable musical journey in Portland.

Celebrate Baroque Masterpieces in Portland: Vivaldi Takes Center Stage

Get ready, Portland! Experience a series of enchanting Baroque concerts this season. From the Portland Baroque Orchestra's 'Bach & Telemann: French Finesse' at Sanctuary Hall, 'D’amore' at Reed College, and 'Spring: Vivaldi, Guido & Samuel', to the Oregon Symphony's 'Baroque Splendor with Handel & Bach' and 'Bach & Mendelssohn: Grace and Grandeur' at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, indulge in the masterful works of Johann Sebastian Bach and his contemporaries.

Baroque Brilliance in Portland: Celebrating Bach and Friends

Portland, OR is set to become a haven for baroque music lovers with a series of captivating concerts featuring the works of George Frideric Handel and his contemporaries. From the vivid transitions of Vivaldi's 'The Four Seasons' to Handel's majestic 'Water Music' and the timeless 'Messiah', there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Portland Baroque Orchestra and the Oregon Symphony bring these iconic compositions to life, promising an unforgettable experience in venues like Reed College, Sanctuary Hall at First Congregational UCC, and Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.

Celebrate Handel and Baroque Music in Portland: An Autumn to Spring Musical Journey

Step into the enchanting world of baroque music with the Portland Baroque Orchestra's upcoming season, showcasing a mesmerizing blend of timeless masterpieces and innovative interpretations. From Handel's iconic 'Messiah' to a captivating exploration of spring through Vivaldi, Guido, and Samuel, these performances promise to transport audiences to an era of profound musical artistry. With esteemed guest directors and performers like Julian Perkins and Debra Nagy, this season offers an immersive journey through the diverse landscapes of baroque music, celebrating its enduring resonance and emotional depth.

Portland Baroque Orchestra: A Season of Timeless Harmony and Innovation

Portland Baroque Orchestra offers a feast for the senses with its 2024-2025 concert series, featuring five captivating events that seamlessly blend historical authenticity and contemporary flair. From Handel’s “Messiah” to the ethereal sounds of “D’amore,” and the evocative echoes of “The Hunting Horn,” each performance promises to transport audiences into the rich tapestry of Baroque music. With renowned artists like Julian Perkins, Debra Nagy, Reginald Mobley, and more bringing these timeless works to life, this season is set to be an unforgettable journey through the beauty and emotion of Baroque compositions.

A Season of Baroque Brilliance: Portland Baroque Orchestra's Exquisite Concert Series

Dive into an immersive exploration of Baroque music with the Portland Baroque Orchestra's compelling lineup. From the unique soundscapes of 'D’amore' to the evocative 'Spring: Vivaldi, Guido & Samuel', these concerts promise a journey through history's harmonious corridors. Featuring renowned artists like Debra Nagy and Julian Perkins, each event showcases the delicate interplay of instruments and the timeless beauty of Baroque compositions. This season encapsulates the rebirth of spring, the thrill of the hunt, and the profound reflections of love and faith.

A Baroque Symphony: Portland's Harmonious Ode to History

Embark on a journey through the European countryside and witness the vibrant essence of spring, as the Portland Baroque Orchestra presents a series of concerts featuring timeless compositions by Handel, Vivaldi, Bach, and others. Experience the evocative sounds of 'The Hunting Horn' and 'Pergolesi: Stabat Mater,' while celebrating the themes of rebirth and renewal with 'Spring: Vivaldi, Guido & Samuel.' Each event brings a unique dimension to the Baroque repertoire, showcasing both historical and contemporary artistry under the expert direction of Julian Perkins.

A Baroque Spring: Musical Journeys with the Portland Baroque Orchestra

Join the Portland Baroque Orchestra on a journey through time and emotion with three distinct concerts: 'The Hunting Horn: Handel, Couperin & Bach,' 'Spring: Vivaldi, Guido & Samuel,' and 'Pergolesi: Stabat Mater.' Each performance offers a unique perspective on the themes of nature, rebirth, and human emotion, showcasing the talents of acclaimed musicians under the artistic direction of Julian Perkins. From the grandeur of the hunt to the vibrant renewal of spring and the introspective contemplation of human emotion, these events promise an unforgettable musical experience.

A Symphony of Seasons: Exploring Baroque Masterpieces in Portland

Get ready to indulge in an afternoon of elegance and melody at Keys & Teas – a benefit recital that promises to delight your senses while supporting Portland Baroque Orchestra!

Keys & Teas Benefit Recital

Forte' Floral Artistry

The season of seasons closes by honoring the themes of light, love, and rebirth through acclaimed works by Pergolesi, Scarlatti, Bach, and Vivaldi. In Vivaldi’s “Summer,” the cuckoo, dove, and goldfinch sing in the blazing sun before the winds begin to blow. Following an homage to Scarlatti, including his Salve Regina in G Minor, we conclude with a work that he inspired; Pergolessi’s final masterpiece, Stabat Mater. Its dancing rhythms and decorative trills contrast effectively with the tender, passionate text sung by soprano Anna Dennis, rounding out the season with a sense of joy and hope.

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Pergolesi: Stabat Mater

Reed College

Sanctuary Hall at First Congregational UCC

A celebration of rebirth and renewal, from the much-loved “Spring” from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, to the world premiere of Rhian Samuel’s Gwanwyn (the Welsh word for spring), commissioned by PBO in response to Vivaldi’s interpretation of the season. We also explore Bach’s Harpsichord Concerto in G Minor, a ‘rebirth’ of one of his earlier works where the organic interplay of soloist and orchestra captures the nature of springtime.

Spring: Vivaldi, Guido & Samuel

Experience the evocative sounds of "The Hunting Horn: Handel, Couperin & Bach," a captivating concert by the Portland Baroque Orchestra. This performance features a rich blend of horn, oboe, violin, and harpsichord, taking the audience on a musical journey through the European countryside. The program opens with Stölzel’s Sonata, whose simplicity beautifully captures the essence of the outdoors. As the concert progresses, the complexity of the music intensifies with compositions by Telemann and Fasch, reflecting the excitement and intensity of the hunt. These pieces pay homage to the horn’s crucial role in signaling and guiding the pursuit. The concert also includes Handel’s Suite in D Major, arranged by Andrew Clark, Couperin’s Suite from the Concerts royaux, and Bach’s Sonata for violin and harpsichord in E Minor. Under the artistic direction of Julian Perkins and featuring Andrew Clark on the horn, this performance promises a vivid and dynamic exploration of baroque music, celebrating the spirited chase and the majestic sounds of the hunt.

The Hunting Horn: Handel, Couperin & Bach

Experience an evening of captivating beauty with the Portland Baroque Orchestra's "D’amore" concert, featuring the exquisite talents of guest director and oboist Debra Nagy. Renowned for her consummate taste and expressivity, Nagy leads a program that celebrates the enchanting fusion of the oboe d’amore and viola d’amore. This unique combination, praised by Leopold Mozart for its especially charming sound in the stillness of the evening, promises to deliver an ethereal auditory experience.

The program includes Antonio Vivaldi's Concerto for viola d’amore in A Major, RV 396, Johann Sebastian Bach's Concerto for oboe d’amore in A Major, BWV 1055R, and Georg Philipp Telemann's Concerto for viola d’amore, oboe d’amore, and flute in E Major, TWV 53:E1. Each piece showcases the distinct, rich resonance of the viola d’amore and the enchanting tones of the oboe d’amore, creating a profound emotional journey for the audience.

Join the Portland Baroque Orchestra for an evening where the delicate interplay of these rare instruments brings to life the works of Baroque masters, offering a deeply moving and memorable musical experience.

D’amore

Experience the timeless beauty of Handel's Messiah as it was originally intended, performed as a complete oratorio on period instruments. Under the masterful direction of Artistic Director Julian Perkins, the Portland Baroque Orchestra brings this iconic work to life with an authenticity that resonates deeply. The orchestra, along with distinguished soloists Rebecca Myers (soprano), Dann Coakwell (tenor), and Christian Pursell (bass-baritone), infuses Handel's masterpiece with renewed vitality and emotional depth. Set in the intimate Sanctuary Hall at First Congregational, this performance promises an immersive musical journey through one of the most celebrated compositions in history. The rich, historical sound of period instruments combined with the exceptional talent of the performers creates a profound and moving experience, capturing the essence of Handel's vision.

Handel’s "Messiah"

Discover the captivating journey of the trumpet in "The Royal Trumpeter: Kris’ Podium," a highlight of the Portland Baroque Orchestra's 2024-25 season. Curated by Principal Trumpet Kris Kwapis, this program explores the trumpet's transformation from a battlefield instrument to a symbol of expressive virtuosity. Set against the vibrant backdrop of late seventeenth-century London, the performance showcases the trumpet's prominence in England's regal courts, accompanied by strings, winds, and voices. The evening features the works of renowned composers such as Henry Purcell, William Croft, and John Eccles, whose compositions reflect the grandeur and sophistication of an era marked by royal patronage. Highlights include Purcell's Act II Symphony from "The Indian Queen," Croft's Overture from "Ode for the Peace of Utrecht," and Eccles' Suite Made for the Queen’s Coronation. Additionally, the program includes Gottfried Finger's Sonata for trumpet, violin, and continuo, further illustrating the instrument's versatility and elegance. This event promises a rich auditory experience, celebrating the trumpet's historical and musical significance.

The Royal Trumpeter: Kris’ Podium

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.

Bach & Telemann: French Finesse

Experience the harmonious blend of nature and music with the Portland Baroque Orchestra's "Handel & Vivaldi: Autumn Light." This concert opens the 2024-25 season by delving into the elemental forces of nature through the evocative compositions of Vivaldi and Handel. Vivaldi's "Autumn" and "Winter" from "The Four Seasons" capture the vivid transitions from the vibrant colors of fall to the icy stillness of winter. These pieces are followed by Handel's powerful "Silete venti," where soprano Maya Kherani navigates the audience through the tumultuous fall storms into the serene embrace of winter nights. The concert also features Maria Margherita Grimani's "Sinfonia to Pallade e Marte" and Johan Helmich Roman's "Little Drottningholm Music," adding layers of historical richness to the evening. Under the artistic direction of Julian Perkins, with Carla Moore leading on violin and Rob Diggins as principal second violin, this Italian-inspired program promises a seamless intertwining of music and nature, offering a reflective and immersive auditory experience.

Handel & Vivaldi: Autumn Light

Get ready to strike a chord with us at “Afternoon Keys” – an event that promises to be a symphony of delight for your senses, all while supporting your favorite organization!

Afternoon Keys

Nordia House

Georg Muffat’s words are as relevant today as when he wrote them in 1695. Here, musical styles range from his French-infused dances to Andrzej Panufnik’s unique recreation of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century musical fragments from Poland that were almost lost to the ravages of war. Our season culminates with an Italianate symphony by the Ukrainian composer Maxim Berezovsky.

Harmony of Nations

First Baptist Church Portland

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

This program brings together Johann Sebastian Bach and two of his sons to explore how one musical lineage contains strikingly different voices. J. S. Bach’s compelling Triple Concerto anchors the program, while the distinctive voices of his sons reveal how far the next generation traveled in musical innovation. Johann Christoph Friedrich’s stormy Symphony in D Minor bridges Baroque structure with a more modern dramatic voice, contrasting with Carl Philipp Emanuel’s Flute Concerto, with its lyrical expressiveness and moments of striking intensity. Together, they frame a genuine generational dialogue: are these styles kindred spirits, or rivals sparring across time?

The Bach Dynasty: Symphonies & Concertos

Celebrate the season with Messiah, performed on period instruments just as Handel intended, infusing his music with intimacy and charm.  From the triumphant “Hallelujah” to its radiant arias and resounding choruses, this beloved oratorio continues to move audiences with its beauty, drama, and hope. Returning guest director Gary Thor Wedow, a specialist in historically informed performance and longtime Juilliard faculty member, leads the orchestra alongside world-class soloists and Portland Baroque Voices, PBO’s newly launched professional vocal ensemble, bringing clarity, energy, and dramatic insight to this timeless work.

Handel's Messiah

Trinity Music joins forces with Portland Baroque Orchestra and guest conductor Ruben Valenzuela to present Antonio Vivaldi’s beloved Gloria and Josef Haydn’s Nikolaimesse.

Christmas Concert: Vivaldi's Gloria

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Portland

Scored for two violins and cello, this chamber program is perhaps the most intimate of the season. At its heart is John Antes, a Moravian composer whose music reflects a life lived across continents and shifting identities.

American Baroque: Haydn's Moravian Connection

Portland Baroque Orchestra works to connect audiences of all ages and backgrounds to historically inspired music by providing spaces for interaction and conversation within and beyond traditional concert settings. From musical education tours in schools around the Portland Metro Area to accessible All Ages Concerts, PBO aims to ignite a musical passion in the next generation of Baroque musicians and aficionados.

All Ages Concert

Step into the world of early English consort music, flourishing in Restoration England under Charles II. Curated by Principal Cellist Joanna Blendulf, this year’s Podium concert presents a rare combination of instruments: tenor and bass viols, violas, violins, violone, theorbo, organ, and harpsichord, creating a sound that is intimate and reedy. Purcell’s celebrated Chacony is underpinned by a hypnotically repeating bass line that yields to the Fantasia upon One Note, where a single unchanging pitch anchors the music while the ensemble spirals around it. William Lawes’ Consort Sett No. 6 (a personal favorite of Joanna’s) is dramatic, unpredictable, and ahead of its time. Music by Matthew Locke adds theatrical flair with stormy scenes from The Tempest, before the concert culminates in John Jenkins’s Newark Siege: a musical battle that pits bass viols against one another in a riveting finale.

Viols at Court: Purcell & Locke

In the Baroque sensibility, death was not something to fear but rather a peaceful homecoming, and no composer understood that better than Bach. The program culminates in his beloved cantata Ich habe genug, a deeply consoling meditation on death that unfolds like a lullaby. Countertenor Tai Oney returns to PBO, bringing a warm, mellow sound that pairs naturally with the oboe, an instrument Bach uses like an echo or guiding spirit alongside the singer. Works by Telemann, Scarlatti, Torelli, and Pergolesi build steadily toward this destination, including Telemann’s Oboe Concerto in C Minor, a dramatic spotlight for the instrument.

Liberation: Bach, Telemann & Pergolesi

A Little Night Music brings the season to a glowing close with music that shimmers, intrigues, and delights. The program features nocturnal scenes and street music, including Boccherini’s beloved La Musica Notturna delle strade di Madrid, with its vivid bells and rhythms, before culminating in Mozart’s Eine kleine Nachtmusik, an irresistible classic that continues to captivate listeners. Showcasing the orchestra’s strings at their most luminous, this is not music for sleep but for wonder: a nocturnal celebration that invites reflection, joy, and a final flourish to close the season.

Portland Baroque Orchestra

14 - 15 Nov, 2026

The Bach Dynasty: Symphonies & Concertos

10 - 13 Dec, 2026

Handel's Messiah

Dec 18, 2026

Christmas Concert: Vivaldi's Gloria

Feb 13, 2027

American Baroque: Haydn's Moravian Connection

Feb 20, 2027

All Ages Concert

May 10, 2025

Keys & Teas Benefit Recital

12 - 13 Apr, 2025

Pergolesi: Stabat Mater

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