Role

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Ensemble

Genre

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Orchestral

 

La Follia is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1996 in Austin, Texas. The group is dedicated to performing music from the Baroque and early Classical periods, with a focus on the works of composers such as Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Telemann. The ensemble was founded by Keith Womer, a professional cellist and music educator who had previously performed with the Austin Symphony Orchestra and the San Antonio Symphony. Womer was inspired to start La Follia after attending a concert by the Academy of Ancient Music in London, and he wanted to bring the same level of authenticity and passion for early music to audiences in Texas. The core members of La Follia are Keith Womer on cello, Marcus McGuff on harpsichord, and Stephen Redfield on violin. Over the years, the ensemble has also featured a rotating cast of guest musicians on various instruments, including flute, oboe, bassoon, and trumpet. One of the highlights of La Follia's early years was their performance of Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in 1998, which was praised by critics for its "crisp, lively playing" and "impeccable ensemble work." The group also received acclaim for their performances of Handel's Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks, which showcased their ability to capture the grandeur and pomp of Baroque music. In 2001, La Follia released their first CD, titled "Baroque Music from the Courts of Europe." The album featured works by Bach, Handel, and Telemann, and was praised by critics for its "exquisite playing" and "impeccable attention to detail." Over the years, La Follia has continued to perform at venues throughout Texas and beyond, including the Texas Early Music Festival, the Houston Early Music Festival, and the Boston Early Music Festival. They have also collaborated with other ensembles, such as the Texas Choral Consort and the Austin Civic Orchestra. In 2016, La Follia celebrated their 20th anniversary with a special concert featuring works by Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi. The concert was held at the First Presbyterian Church in Austin, and was attended by a large and enthusiastic audience. Throughout their history, La Follia has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 2003, they were named "Best Chamber Ensemble" by the Austin Chronicle, and in 2010, they received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support their performances and educational outreach programs. Today, La Follia continues to be a leading ensemble in the early music scene, known for their passionate and authentic performances of Baroque and early Classical music.

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