Galilei Consort is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2007 by the Dutch lutenist and conductor, Fred Jacobs. The ensemble is named after the famous Italian astronomer, Galileo Galilei, who was also a skilled lutenist and composer. The Galilei Consort specializes in performing music from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, with a particular focus on the music of Italy and Spain. The main members of the Galilei Consort are Fred Jacobs (lute and direction), Marleen Leicher (soprano), and Mieneke van der Velden (viola da gamba). Jacobs is a highly respected lutenist and conductor who has performed with many of the world's leading early music ensembles, including the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra and the Academy of Ancient Music. Leicher is a versatile soprano who has performed in a wide range of musical styles, from early music to contemporary opera. Van der Velden is a renowned viola da gamba player who has performed with many of the world's leading early music ensembles, including the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra and Les Arts Florissants. Since its founding, the Galilei Consort has performed at many of the world's leading early music festivals, including the Utrecht Early Music Festival, the Festival Oude Muziek in Bruges, and the Festival de Musique Baroque de Lamèque in Canada. The ensemble has also performed at many of the world's leading concert halls, including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Wigmore Hall in London, and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. One of the highlights of the Galilei Consort's career was their performance of Monteverdi's Vespers of 1610 at the Utrecht Early Music Festival in 2010. This performance was widely praised for its energy, precision, and emotional depth, and it helped to establish the Galilei Consort as one of the leading early music ensembles in the world. The ensemble has also received critical acclaim for their recordings of music by Monteverdi, Frescobaldi, and other composers of the Italian and Spanish Baroque. In addition to their performances and recordings, the Galilei Consort is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly gives masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and they have also developed educational programs for schools and community groups. Through their work, the Galilei Consort seeks to inspire a new generation of musicians and music lovers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of early music. Overall, the Galilei Consort is a highly respected and influential early music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. With their virtuosic performances, innovative programming, and commitment to education and outreach, the Galilei Consort has helped to bring the music of the Renaissance and Baroque periods to a wider audience, and they continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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