Cantilena Antiqua is a classical music ensemble that specializes in performing early music from the medieval and Renaissance periods. The ensemble was founded in 1987 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for this type of music and wanted to bring it to a wider audience. The founding members of Cantilena Antiqua were soprano Maria Cristina Kiehr, tenor Gerd Türk, and lutenist and guitarist Konrad Junghänel. They were soon joined by other musicians, including viola da gamba player Sarah Cunningham and harpsichordist Andreas Staier. The ensemble quickly gained a reputation for their high-quality performances and their commitment to authenticity in their interpretations of early music. They use period instruments and strive to recreate the sound and style of the music as it would have been performed in its original context. One of the highlights of Cantilena Antiqua's early career was their performance at the 1989 Festival Oude Muziek in Utrecht, the Netherlands. This prestigious festival is dedicated to early music and attracts top performers from around the world. Cantilena Antiqua's performance was well-received and helped to establish them as a leading ensemble in the field. Over the years, Cantilena Antiqua has performed at many other major festivals and concert series, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Salzburg Festival, and the Berliner Festwochen. They have also toured extensively throughout Europe, North America, and Asia. One of the ensemble's most notable recordings is their 1992 album "Music at the Court of Burgundy," which features music from the 15th century Burgundian court. The album was highly praised by critics and won several awards, including the Diapason d'Or and the Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik. Cantilena Antiqua has also collaborated with other musicians and ensembles, including the Huelgas Ensemble and the Hilliard Ensemble. They have recorded several albums together, including "Music for the Duke of Lerma" and "Music for the Spanish Kings." In addition to their performances and recordings, Cantilena Antiqua is also committed to education and outreach. They have conducted workshops and masterclasses for students and young musicians, and have worked with schools and community organizations to promote early music. Today, Cantilena Antiqua continues to be a leading ensemble in the field of early music. While some of the founding members have moved on to other projects, the ensemble remains committed to their original mission of bringing the music of the medieval and Renaissance periods to a wider audience. They continue to perform and record, and to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers.

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