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Ancient music gets a thrilling new lease of life....

The Academy of Ancient Music is one of the world's first period instrument ensembles. Back in 1973, most orchestras played classical music in a modern style. The instruments were different; the pitch was different; the number of players was different; the very essence and spirit of performances was different. But change was in the air. Wouldn’t it be great, people asked, if we could turn the clock back; if we could find out more about composers’ original intentions and get closer to the style in which music was originally performed? This was the spirit in which Christopher Hogwood founded the AAM.

AAM was a pioneer in historically-informed Baroque performance; the whole orchestra working together to rediscover sounds which hadn’t been heard for hundreds of years. AAM continue to explore the sound-worlds which inspired Bach, Handel and Haydn. They revel in the expressive power of old instruments - flutes made out of wood, trumpets without valves, strings woven from gut. It’s not just the sound of the music which has changed - AAM performances are full of energy and passion and joy.

Programme:

JS Bach Brandenburg Concerto No.1

Vivaldi Concerto in G minor

Telemann Concerto for 3 oboes and 3 violins

Vivaldi Concerto in D major

JS Bach Brandenburg Concerto No.4

Composers such as Bach and Telemann were challenged and delighted by the new works by Vivaldi, whose flamboyance and playful exuberance constituted a truly innovative, new sound. Directing from the harpsichord, Richard Egarr explores the cross-continental connections of this incredibly fruitful age in concertos embracing the violin, recorder, oboe, horn and trumpet.

“Richard Egarr is one of the most exciting talents on the period scene, and probably among the most compelling conductors on the planet.” – The Hub.

The Academy of Ancient Music play at The Apex on Friday 15 April at 7.30pm. Tickets are £25 and £20, with £5 tickets for those aged under 25. Ring the box office on 01284 758000 or see the website - www.theapex.co.uk for details.