Concerto de Bassus is a classical music ensemble that specializes in performing music from the Baroque and Renaissance periods. The ensemble was founded in 2005 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for early music and a desire to bring it to a wider audience. The founding members of Concerto de Bassus were cellist and artistic director, David Simpson, violinist, Sarah Darling, and harpsichordist, John McKean. They were later joined by violist, Rachel Evans, and flutist, Rebecca Troxler. The ensemble's name, Concerto de Bassus, is a nod to the basso continuo, a musical technique used in Baroque music that involves a continuous bass line played by a keyboard instrument and a bass instrument. Since its founding, Concerto de Bassus has become known for its innovative and engaging performances of early music. The ensemble has performed at numerous festivals and concert series throughout the United States, including the Boston Early Music Festival, the Berkeley Early Music Festival, and the Indianapolis Early Music Festival. One of the highlights of Concerto de Bassus's career was their performance at the 2010 Boston Early Music Festival. The ensemble performed a program of music by Italian Baroque composer, Antonio Vivaldi, to critical acclaim. The Boston Globe praised the ensemble's "crisp, lively playing" and "impeccable ensemble work." Concerto de Bassus has also been recognized for its recordings. The ensemble's debut album, "Music for a While," was released in 2008 and received rave reviews. The album features music by Henry Purcell, John Dowland, and other composers of the English Baroque. The American Record Guide called the album "a delight from start to finish" and praised the ensemble's "impeccable musicianship." In addition to their performances and recordings, Concerto de Bassus is committed to education and outreach. The ensemble has conducted workshops and masterclasses for students of all ages, and has worked with organizations such as the National Endowment for the Arts and the North Carolina Arts Council to bring early music to underserved communities. Concerto de Bassus has received numerous awards and accolades for their work. In 2012, the ensemble was awarded the Early Music America/Naxos Recording Competition prize for their recording of music by French Baroque composer, Jean-Philippe Rameau. The recording was praised for its "exquisite playing" and "impeccable taste." Overall, Concerto de Bassus has established itself as one of the premier early music ensembles in the United States. With their innovative programming, engaging performances, and commitment to education and outreach, the ensemble has brought the music of the Baroque and Renaissance periods to a new generation of listeners.

More....