Bach Collegium San Diego is a classical music ensemble that specializes in the performance of Baroque music. The ensemble was founded in 2003 by Ruben Valenzuela, a harpsichordist and conductor who had previously worked with the San Diego Symphony and the San Diego Opera. Valenzuela's vision for the ensemble was to create a group of musicians who were dedicated to the performance of historically informed Baroque music. This meant that the ensemble would use period instruments and techniques to recreate the sound and style of music from the Baroque era. The ensemble's name is a nod to the composer Johann Sebastian Bach, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Baroque era. Bach Collegium San Diego's repertoire includes not only Bach's music, but also works by other Baroque composers such as Handel, Vivaldi, and Telemann. The ensemble's main members are a group of highly skilled musicians who specialize in Baroque music. These include Ruben Valenzuela on harpsichord, John Lenti on theorbo and guitar, Alison Luedecke on cello, and many others. The ensemble also frequently collaborates with guest artists, including vocal soloists and instrumentalists. One of the highlights of Bach Collegium San Diego's performances was their 2013 performance of Bach's Mass in B Minor. This monumental work is considered one of Bach's greatest achievements, and Bach Collegium San Diego's performance was praised for its clarity, precision, and emotional depth. Another notable performance by the ensemble was their 2016 performance of Handel's Messiah. This work is a perennial favorite among audiences, and Bach Collegium San Diego's performance was praised for its energy, passion, and technical skill. In addition to their performances, Bach Collegium San Diego has also received numerous awards and accolades for their recordings. Their 2015 recording of Bach's St. John Passion was nominated for a Grammy Award, and their 2017 recording of Handel's Dixit Dominus was praised for its "crisp, clear, and vibrant" sound. Overall, Bach Collegium San Diego is a highly respected ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the performance and interpretation of Baroque music. Their dedication to historical accuracy and their commitment to excellence have earned them a loyal following among classical music enthusiasts, and their performances continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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