A few weeks from now we’ll open our season at ABO with an exciting and likely once in a lifetime event. Renowned baroque violinist Jaap Schröder will lead ABO musicians in a program of hidden treasures from the 17th century.

Jaap Schröder is one of the most influential figures in baroque music. His scholarship, teaching, and playing – all of which are magnified by his generous spirit – have enabled so many of us to do what we do in the field, and to enjoy a lifetime in pursuit of discovering, understanding, and performing magnificent music. The chance to work with him one on one is rare, and we’re happy to share the outcome of that experience with all of you.

The program will include a range of wonderful works that encompass a great deal of variety and interest. They include:

Overture in G minor by Henry Purcell
Lamento sopra la morte Ferdinandi IIII by Johann Heinrich Schmelzer
Overture no. 1 in G minor by Johann Bernhard Bach

Henry Purcell, of course, is well known as one of the great, prolific composers of court and sacred music in England, as he survived wars, fire, and plague. Schmelzer’s lament is conceived out of great love and respect, which is immediately apparent in this stunning and poignant piece of music. Johann Bernhard Bach was J.S.’s second cousin, and himself a fantastic composer, who wrote an overture with a thrilling virtuosic violin solo part.

Also on the program will be the American Baroque Singers performing works again by Purcell – “Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts,” and the lovely and gripping 8 part “Hear my prayer, O Lord.” As well, so as not to leave out great music of the era produced slightly to the east, the singers will perform two rarely heard Slavic motets that helped to usher polyphony into Russia and Ukraine.

The concert will take place on Friday, October 28, beginning at 7:30pm at the Yale Divinity School’s Marquand Chapel, a beautiful setting and acoustic for this project. (Parking is available on site.)

Much of this music, as posted in my last blog entry, is unavailable on recording. And to hear Jaap Schröder’s inspired leadership and understanding of these works is just as rare. Though tickets will be available at the door, we encourage you to buy and save online, by clicking: americanbaroqueorchestra.com/concerts

We would love to see you at this wonderful event. And stick around afterward to say hello and meet the members of ABO.