Folger Consort Tickets

The Folger Consort is a musical ensemble that specializes in Early Music, which generally refers to the music of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Despite the somewhat vague definition of Early Music, it's an important genre of classical music that largely informs the music we hear today.

The Folger Consort was founded in 1977 by Robert Eisenstein and his wife, Margaret Swinchoski. The group takes its name from the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington D.C., where its concerts were initially held. Today, the Folger Consort regularly performs throughout the United States and abroad.

The music performed by the Folger Consort spans centuries and cultures. One of their signature programs is titled "Music for Twelfth Night," which features English, French, and Italian music from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the era when Shakespeare was writing. This program includes traditional Christmas carols and songs, as well as instrumental works for viols, brass, and percussion.

Another popular program is "Tales of Three Cities," which explores the connections between the music of London, Paris, and Venice in the 16th and 17th centuries. This program showcases the diverse styles of these three great cultural centers, including lively dance music and richly harmonized choral works.

The Folger Consort's performances are known for their high level of musicianship and historical accuracy. They use period instruments and perform on stages designed to recreate the acoustic spaces of different eras. The result is a vivid and immersive experience that transports audiences back in time.

The Folger Consort is an important contributor to the world of classical music, particularly Early Music. Their performances demonstrate the richness and diversity of this genre, and their commitment to historical accuracy helps to preserve the traditions and techniques of centuries past. Whether performing in historic venues or modern concert halls, the Folger Consort's music is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of classical music.