The Albemarle Consort of Voices is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of vocal harmonies and instrumental accompaniment for over three decades. Founded in 1987 by a group of music enthusiasts in Charlottesville, Virginia, the ensemble has since become a staple of the local music scene and has gained national recognition for their exceptional performances. The founding members of the Albemarle Consort of Voices were a group of friends who shared a passion for early music and wanted to create a space where they could explore and perform this genre together. The group was named after the Albemarle County, where Charlottesville is located, and the word "consort," which refers to a group of musicians who play together. The ensemble's main members have changed over the years, but the group has always been led by a talented director who has a deep understanding of early music and a passion for sharing it with others. Some of the ensemble's most notable directors include David McCormick, who led the group from 1990 to 2000, and Aaron Sheehan, who served as the ensemble's director from 2000 to 2005. One of the Albemarle Consort of Voices' most significant achievements was their performance at the Boston Early Music Festival in 1997. This festival is one of the most prestigious early music events in the world, and the ensemble's invitation to perform there was a testament to their exceptional talent and dedication to their craft. The ensemble's performance was well-received by both audiences and critics, and it helped to establish the group as one of the leading early music ensembles in the United States. In addition to their performance at the Boston Early Music Festival, the Albemarle Consort of Voices has also been recognized for their exceptional recordings. The ensemble's album "The English Renaissance" was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2002, and their album "The Flower of Finales" was named one of the top classical recordings of 2005 by the New York Times. Over the years, the Albemarle Consort of Voices has performed a wide range of early music, including works by composers such as William Byrd, Thomas Tallis, and John Dowland. The ensemble's performances are known for their exquisite vocal harmonies, intricate instrumental accompaniment, and attention to detail. One of the ensemble's most memorable performances was their 25th-anniversary concert in 2012. This concert featured a selection of the group's favorite pieces from their repertoire, as well as some new works that they had been working on. The concert was held at the University of Virginia's Old Cabell Hall, and it was attended by a packed house of music lovers. In addition to their regular performances, the Albemarle Consort of Voices has also collaborated with other musicians and ensembles over the years. One of their most notable collaborations was with the Virginia Consort, a choral ensemble based in Richmond, Virginia. The two groups performed together in 2010, and their joint concert was hailed as a triumph of early music performance. The Albemarle Consort of Voices has also been involved in educational outreach programs, bringing their love of early music to students of all ages. The ensemble has worked with local schools and universities to provide workshops and performances that introduce students to the beauty and complexity of early music.

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