Blue Heron is a Boston-based vocal ensemble that specializes in performing music from the Renaissance and early Baroque periods. The group was founded in 1999 by Scott Metcalfe, a conductor and violinist who had previously worked with other early music ensembles such as the Boston Camerata and the Handel and Haydn Society. Metcalfe's vision for Blue Heron was to create a group that would focus on the music of the 15th and 16th centuries, particularly the music of the Franco-Flemish school. This was a time when composers such as Josquin des Prez, Guillaume Dufay, and Johannes Ockeghem were creating some of the most innovative and complex music of the era. The ensemble's name, Blue Heron, was inspired by a painting by the 15th-century Flemish artist Jan van Eyck, which depicts a blue heron standing in a stream. Metcalfe felt that the image of the heron, with its graceful and elegant movements, was a fitting symbol for the group's music. Blue Heron's core members are a group of eight singers, all of whom are highly trained in early music performance. The group also frequently collaborates with instrumentalists, including lutenists, viol players, and organists. One of the highlights of Blue Heron's early years was their performance of the complete works of Johannes Ockeghem, which they presented in a series of concerts over several years. This was a major undertaking, as Ockeghem's music is notoriously difficult to perform, but the group's dedication and skill earned them critical acclaim and a devoted following. In addition to their performances of Renaissance music, Blue Heron has also explored the music of the early Baroque period, including works by composers such as Claudio Monteverdi and Heinrich Schütz. They have also commissioned new works from contemporary composers, including Scott Ordway and Kile Smith. One of the group's most notable performances was their 2015 concert at the Boston Early Music Festival, where they presented a program of music by the Franco-Flemish composer Nicolas Gombert. The concert was praised for its "exquisite singing" and "impeccable ensemble work," and earned the group a standing ovation from the audience. Blue Heron has also been recognized for their recordings, which have received numerous awards and critical acclaim. Their 2010 recording of music by Guillaume Du Fay was named one of the top classical recordings of the year by The New York Times, and their 2018 recording of music by Johannes Ockeghem won the Gramophone Award for Early Music. In addition to their performances and recordings, Blue Heron is also committed to education and outreach. They frequently offer workshops and masterclasses for singers and instrumentalists, and have worked with students at institutions such as Harvard University and the Longy School of Music. Overall, Blue Heron has established itself as one of the premier early music ensembles in the United States, known for their impeccable musicianship, innovative programming, and commitment to excellence. With their dedication to the music of the past and their willingness to explore new repertoire, they continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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