Van Diemen's Band is a classical music ensemble that specializes in performing music from the Baroque and Classical periods. The ensemble was founded in 2006 by Julia Fredersdorff, a violinist and musicologist, and Simon Rickard, a bassoonist and composer. The group takes its name from the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who named the island of Tasmania after the Dutch province of Zeeland, which was also known as Van Diemen's Land. The founding members of Van Diemen's Band were Julia Fredersdorff (violin), Simon Rickard (bassoon), Rosanne Hunt (cello), and Tommie Andersson (theorbo). Over the years, the ensemble has expanded to include a range of other musicians, including harpsichordists, flutists, and singers. Van Diemen's Band has become known for its innovative and engaging performances of Baroque and Classical music. The ensemble's repertoire includes works by composers such as Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Mozart, as well as lesser-known composers from the same period. The group's performances are characterized by their energy, precision, and attention to detail. One of the highlights of Van Diemen's Band's career was their performance at the 2015 Hobart Baroque festival. The festival, which was held in Hobart, Tasmania, featured a range of Baroque music performances from around the world. Van Diemen's Band was one of the headline acts, and their performance was widely praised for its virtuosity and musicality. In addition to their live performances, Van Diemen's Band has also released several recordings. Their debut album, "Bach and Friends," was released in 2010 and features works by Bach and his contemporaries. The album was well-received by critics and helped to establish the ensemble as one of the leading Baroque music groups in Australia. Van Diemen's Band has also been recognized for their contributions to the Australian music scene. In 2013, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Art Music Award for Excellence in Ensemble Performance. The award, which is presented by the Australian Music Centre and the Australian Performing Rights Association, recognizes outstanding achievements in the field of Australian contemporary classical music. Another notable performance by Van Diemen's Band was their collaboration with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra in 2017. The two groups came together to perform a program of Baroque and Classical music, which included works by Bach, Handel, and Mozart. The performance was a great success, and helped to showcase the versatility and musicality of both ensembles. Van Diemen's Band has also been involved in a range of educational and outreach programs. The ensemble has worked with schools and community groups to promote the appreciation and understanding of Baroque and Classical music. They have also conducted workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, helping to inspire the next generation of classical musicians in Australia. In conclusion, Van Diemen's Band is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the Australian music scene. Founded in 2006 by Julia Fredersdorff and Simon Rickard, the ensemble has become known for its innovative and engaging performances of Baroque and Classical music. With a repertoire that includes works by Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Mozart, as well as lesser-known composers from the same period, Van Diemen's Band has established itself as one of the leading Baroque music groups in Australia.

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