Ensemble devotio moderna is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2005 in the Netherlands. The ensemble is known for its unique approach to early music, combining historical research with modern interpretation techniques to create a fresh and innovative sound. The founding members of Ensemble devotio moderna were soprano Marjon Strijk and lutenist David van Ooijen. Both musicians had a passion for early music and a desire to explore new ways of interpreting the works of composers from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. They were soon joined by other like-minded musicians, including viola da gamba player Mieneke van der Velden and harpsichordist Johan Hofmann. One of the defining characteristics of Ensemble devotio moderna is its commitment to historical accuracy. The musicians spend a great deal of time researching the music they perform, studying original manuscripts and historical performance practices in order to gain a deeper understanding of the composer's intentions. This attention to detail is reflected in the ensemble's performances, which are known for their authenticity and emotional depth. Over the years, Ensemble devotio moderna has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in Europe, including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Festival Oude Muziek in Utrecht, and the Early Music Festival in Bruges. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of other musicians and ensembles, including the Netherlands Bach Society and the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra. One of the highlights of Ensemble devotio moderna's career was their performance of Claudio Monteverdi's Vespers of 1610 at the Festival Oude Muziek in Utrecht in 2010. This ambitious project involved a large ensemble of musicians and singers, and required months of preparation and rehearsal. The performance was widely praised for its emotional intensity and technical precision, and cemented Ensemble devotio moderna's reputation as one of the leading early music ensembles in Europe. In addition to their live performances, Ensemble devotio moderna has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. Their debut album, "Amor, Fortuna, e Morte," was released in 2008 and featured works by composers such as John Dowland, Claudio Monteverdi, and Giulio Caccini. The album was praised for its beautiful sound and sensitive interpretation, and helped to establish Ensemble devotio moderna as a major force in the early music world. Over the years, Ensemble devotio moderna has received numerous awards and accolades for their work. In 2012, they were awarded the prestigious Dutch Classical Music Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the classical music scene in the Netherlands. The ensemble has also been praised for their educational work, which includes workshops and masterclasses for young musicians and students. Today, Ensemble devotio moderna continues to push the boundaries of early music performance, exploring new ways of interpreting and presenting the works of composers from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. With their commitment to historical accuracy and emotional depth, they have become one of the most respected and beloved ensembles in the early music world.

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