Mark Kramer, Artistic Director

 

Now in its twenty-fifth season, the Ars Antiqua Concert Series is devoted to performances of 17th & 18th-century music on historical instruments. These critically acclaimed performances are enhanced by guest speakers and illustrated program books which help place the music within the context of baroque art and social history. The intimate English Gothic-style Church of St. Mary the Virgin provides a rare opportunity to hear period instruments at a very close vantage in an exquisite architectural setting. The audience is invited to meet the artists at a reception after each concert and enjoy food that has been designed to complement the musical style of each program.

“Music, performers and space fit perfectly together for a memorable concert in the Austrian Embassy atrium. Fine soloists in program of seventeenth-century Austrian works amazing melodic configurations and subtle but gutsy bowing pungent clarity glorious show of poly-choral splendor. All in all, a brilliant occasion.

-Washington Post, April 9, 2001

“The Ars Antiqua ensemble demonstrated excellent musical interplay. Violinist Ryan Brown provided a number of virtuoso performances with fluidity and grace.”

“First rate performances of unfamiliar repertoire.”

“My enthusiasm stems from the fact that this was not one of those correct but oh-so-stiff early music performances but was filled with spirit and vitality throughout. These musicians undoubtedly understand the proper performance practice well enough to let go and give pleasure through their craft.”

- Francis Brancaleone, Gannett Papers

You are invited to become a supporting member of our concert series with a much needed contribution that will help to perpetuate this valuable cultural resource for our community. Each category of membership subscription includes TWO tickets to each of the three concerts during the 2008-2009 season. Special “priority” tickets are available to Benefactors & Donors who will be seated in the front rows of the chapel. Patrons receive reserved seats in the next six rows, and all other seating is by general admission.