Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Renaissance

 

 

Baroque

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Ensemble Convivencia is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2012 by the American violinist, Elizabeth Blumenstock. The ensemble is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and is dedicated to performing music from the Baroque and Classical periods on period instruments. The ensemble's name, Convivencia, is derived from the Spanish word for "coexistence" and reflects the ensemble's mission to bring together musicians from different backgrounds and cultures to create a harmonious musical experience. Elizabeth Blumenstock is a renowned Baroque violinist who has performed with many of the world's leading period instrument ensembles, including Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, American Bach Soloists, and Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra. She founded Ensemble Convivencia with the goal of creating a flexible ensemble that could perform a wide range of repertoire, from solo sonatas to chamber music to orchestral works. The ensemble's core members include Elizabeth Blumenstock on violin, Katherine Heater on harpsichord, and William Skeen on cello. All three musicians are highly respected performers in the early music world and have performed with many of the leading period instrument ensembles in the United States and Europe. In addition to the core members, Ensemble Convivencia frequently collaborates with other musicians, including singers, wind players, and additional string players, to create a rich and varied sound. Ensemble Convivencia has performed at many of the leading early music festivals in the United States, including the Berkeley Festival and Exhibition, the Boston Early Music Festival, and the Indianapolis Early Music Festival. The ensemble has also performed at numerous concert series and venues throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, including the San Francisco Early Music Society, the Berkeley Early Music Festival, and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. One of the highlights of Ensemble Convivencia's career was their performance at the 2014 Berkeley Festival and Exhibition. The ensemble performed a program of music by J.S. Bach, including the Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 and the Violin Concerto in A minor. The performance was highly praised by critics and audiences alike, with the San Francisco Chronicle calling it "a stunning display of virtuosity and musicality." Ensemble Convivencia has also received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 2015, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Diapason d'Or award for their recording of the complete sonatas for violin and harpsichord by J.S. Bach. The recording was praised for its "impeccable musicianship" and "deep understanding of the music." In addition to their performances and recordings, Ensemble Convivencia is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble frequently gives masterclasses and workshops for students and amateur musicians, and they have also collaborated with local schools and community organizations to bring early music to a wider audience. Overall, Ensemble Convivencia is a highly respected and versatile ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the early music world. With their commitment to coexistence and collaboration, the ensemble has created a unique and vibrant musical experience that is both engaging and enlightening.

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