Music is “nature’s voice”, wrote Henry Purcell in his 1692 ode Hail, Bright Cecilia, sung with “incredible graces” according to the Gentleman’s Journal. Celebrated as Orpheus Britannicus, Purcell brought the English language vividly to life, capturing the spirit of Shakespearean drama, Restoration comedy and Dryden’s tragedies. His theatrical instinct also lent profound immediacy to sacred texts. Purcell wrote for church feasts, royal ceremony, public occasions, private devotion and lively entertainment: music equally at home in Westminster Abbey, the Royal Chapel, taverns and catch clubs. He remains not only one of England’s greatest composers, but its most quintessentially English.

Founded and led by Norwegian violinist Bjarte Eike in 2005, Barokksolistene is now recognised as one of the world’s most dynamic and exciting groups working in the field of historically informed performance, fusing virtuoso musicianship with flawless ensemble playing. Constantly striving to reach out to new audiences, their passion to engage with folk and experimental music, improvisation, visual arts, dance and story-telling has led them to create unique concert experiences which play to sold-out audiences worldwide.

Image Credit – Matthew Long