The Avison Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1985 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. The ensemble is named after Charles Avison, an 18th-century English composer and organist who was a prominent figure in the North East of England. The founding members of the Avison Ensemble were a group of musicians who shared a passion for Baroque music and historical performance practice. The ensemble's core members include Pavlo Beznosiuk (violin), Richard Tunnicliffe (cello), Rachel Podger (violin), and Roger Hamilton (harpsichord). Over the years, the ensemble has expanded to include a range of other musicians, depending on the repertoire being performed. The Avison Ensemble has gained a reputation for its performances of Baroque music, particularly the works of Handel, Corelli, and Avison himself. The ensemble's performances are characterized by their historical accuracy and attention to detail, with the musicians using period instruments and playing techniques to recreate the sound of the music as it would have been heard in the 18th century. One of the highlights of the Avison Ensemble's career was their performance at the BBC Proms in 2008. The ensemble performed Handel's Water Music, which was originally composed for a royal barge procession on the River Thames in 1717. The Avison Ensemble's performance was praised for its energy and vitality, with critics noting the ensemble's skill in bringing the music to life. The Avison Ensemble has also been recognized for its recordings, with several of their albums receiving critical acclaim. In 2007, the ensemble released a recording of Avison's Concerti Grossi, which was praised for its "sparkling" performances and "impeccable" musicianship. The ensemble has also recorded Handel's Concerti Grossi, Op. 6, which was described by Gramophone magazine as "a benchmark recording" of the works. In addition to their performances and recordings, the Avison Ensemble has also been involved in educational outreach programs, working with schools and community groups to promote an appreciation of Baroque music. The ensemble has also collaborated with other musicians and ensembles, including the Academy of Ancient Music and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. Overall, the Avison Ensemble has established itself as one of the leading ensembles in the field of historical performance practice. With their commitment to authenticity and their passion for Baroque music, the ensemble has won the admiration of audiences and critics alike.

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