London Early Opera is a classical music ensemble that specializes in performing music from the Baroque and Classical periods. The ensemble was founded in 2006 by conductor and harpsichordist Bridget Cunningham, who sought to create a group that would explore the rich and diverse repertoire of early music. Cunningham, who holds a PhD in musicology from the University of London, has been a leading figure in the early music scene for many years. She has performed with some of the world's most renowned early music ensembles, including the Academy of Ancient Music, the English Baroque Soloists, and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. The ensemble's main members include some of the most talented and experienced early music performers in the UK. These include sopranos Grace Davidson and Philippa Hyde, tenors Nicholas Hurndall Smith and William Purefoy, and bass-baritone Giles Underwood. The ensemble is also joined by a number of instrumentalists, including violinists Adrian Chandler and Rachel Isserlis, cellist Joseph Crouch, and flautist Rachel Brown. London Early Opera has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including the Wigmore Hall, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Barbican Centre. The ensemble has also appeared at numerous festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Bath International Music Festival, and the York Early Music Festival. One of the highlights of London Early Opera's career was their performance of Handel's Messiah at St. George's Hanover Square in London in 2010. The performance was widely praised for its energy, passion, and technical excellence, and was hailed as one of the finest interpretations of the work in recent years. London Early Opera has also received numerous awards and accolades for their performances. In 2012, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Gramophone Award for their recording of Handel's Acis and Galatea. The recording was praised for its "sparkling energy" and "impeccable musicianship", and was hailed as one of the finest recordings of the work ever made. In addition to their performances and recordings, London Early Opera is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly gives masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and has worked with a number of schools and community groups to promote the study and appreciation of early music. Overall, London Early Opera is a highly respected and accomplished ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of early music. With their passion, energy, and technical excellence, they continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

More....