Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Renaissance

 

 

Baroque

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Orphénica Lyra is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with its unique sound and style for over four decades. Founded in 1978 by Spanish lutenist and conductor José Miguel Moreno, the ensemble has become renowned for its performances of early music, particularly from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The ensemble's name, Orphénica Lyra, is derived from the Greek mythological figure Orpheus, who was known for his musical talents, and the lyra, a stringed instrument that was popular in ancient Greece. This name reflects the ensemble's commitment to exploring the rich history of classical music and bringing it to life for modern audiences. From its inception, Orphénica Lyra has been led by Moreno, who is widely regarded as one of the world's foremost experts on early music. Born in Madrid in 1953, Moreno began playing the guitar at a young age and later studied the lute with renowned lutenist Hopkinson Smith. He has since become a prolific performer and recording artist, with over 100 albums to his name. Moreno's passion for early music is evident in Orphénica Lyra's performances, which are characterized by their authenticity and attention to detail. The ensemble uses period instruments, such as the lute, viola da gamba, and harpsichord, and strives to recreate the sound and style of the music as it would have been heard in its original context. Over the years, Orphénica Lyra has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues and festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Salzburg Festival, and the BBC Proms. The ensemble has also collaborated with many of the world's leading early music performers, including Jordi Savall, Emma Kirkby, and Andrew Lawrence-King. One of Orphénica Lyra's most notable performances was its 1989 concert at the Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona, which was recorded and released as a live album. The concert featured music by Spanish composers from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, including Francisco Guerrero, Tomás Luis de Victoria, and Gaspar Sanz. The album received critical acclaim and helped to establish Orphénica Lyra as one of the leading ensembles in the early music world. In addition to its live performances, Orphénica Lyra has also recorded extensively, with over 30 albums to its name. The ensemble's recordings have received numerous awards and accolades, including the Diapason d'Or, the Choc de la Musique, and the Gramophone Award. Orphénica Lyra's repertoire is diverse and includes music from a wide range of composers and periods. However, the ensemble is particularly known for its performances of Spanish and Italian music from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Some of the ensemble's most popular recordings include "La Guitarra Española," which features music for the guitar from the 16th and 17th centuries, and "La Folia," which explores the variations on the popular Baroque dance form. Despite its many achievements, Orphénica Lyra remains committed to its mission of bringing early music to a wider audience. The ensemble regularly performs in schools and community centers, and has also collaborated with dance companies and theater groups to create innovative and engaging performances. In conclusion, Orphénica Lyra is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of early music.

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