Role

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Ensemble

 

The Orchestra of Early Opera Company is a classical music ensemble that specializes in performing music from the Baroque and Renaissance periods. The ensemble was founded in 1994 by conductor and harpsichordist Christian Curnyn, who sought to create a group that would focus on the music of early opera and the works of composers such as Handel, Purcell, and Monteverdi. The ensemble's main members include a core group of instrumentalists and singers who specialize in early music performance. These include sopranos Lucy Crowe and Mary Bevan, mezzo-soprano Rachel Kelly, tenor Allan Clayton, and bass-baritone Ashley Riches. The instrumentalists include violinists Huw Daniel and Oliver Webber, cellist Joseph Crouch, and harpsichordist Christian Curnyn. The Orchestra of Early Opera Company has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including the Royal Opera House in London, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, and the Lincoln Center in New York. The ensemble has also collaborated with some of the world's leading opera companies, including the English National Opera, the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, and the Royal Opera House. One of the highlights of the Orchestra of Early Opera Company's career was their performance of Handel's opera "Ariodante" at the Royal Opera House in 2014. The production was directed by Richard Jones and featured a star-studded cast, including mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly in the title role. The production was widely praised for its innovative staging and the quality of the performances. Another notable performance by the ensemble was their production of Purcell's opera "Dido and Aeneas" at the Glyndebourne Festival Opera in 2009. The production was directed by Wayne McGregor and featured a cast of young singers, including soprano Lucy Crowe in the role of Dido. The production was praised for its fresh and modern interpretation of the classic opera. The Orchestra of Early Opera Company has also received numerous awards and accolades for their performances. In 2012, the ensemble won the prestigious Gramophone Award for their recording of Handel's opera "Alceste". The recording featured a cast of leading early music performers, including soprano Lucy Crowe and tenor Allan Clayton. The recording was praised for its "vibrant and engaging" performances and its "impeccable" musical direction. In addition to their performances and recordings, the Orchestra of Early Opera Company is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly conducts workshops and masterclasses for young musicians and singers, and they have also developed a number of educational resources for schools and music teachers. Overall, the Orchestra of Early Opera Company is a world-renowned ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the performance and interpretation of early music. With their innovative productions, exceptional performances, and commitment to education and outreach, the ensemble has established itself as one of the leading early music ensembles in the world.

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