Born out of a meeting of talent, enthusiasm and friendship, the International Baroque Players represent countries from all over the world. Their different backgrounds and influences make the rehearsal and performance processes a truly dynamic experience.
Having won the Deutsche Bank Award 2009 in Performance the ensemble has been able to establish itself firmly in its own right in a short amount of time since its inception in early 2009. They have been invited to perform at the popular Limelight nights at the 100 Club in London, and performed Handel's Jephtha at the Grimeborn Festival 2009 to great acclaim. They are also Ensemble in Residence 2009-2010 at St Giles in the Fields, London. Many of the players combine their orchestral commitments with solo and chamber music engagements and many are active performers in both the modern and historically informed performance spheres, truly embodying the versatility of professional musicians in the 21st century.
Their approach, as smart and stylish twenty-somethings, is to ensure that their work is constantly stimulating and challenging, setting them apart from many of their peers. The fact that they have all made the choice to pursue their passion for historical performance together as friends as well as colleagues makes for a truly dynamic performance. It is this dynamism which lies at the heart of the players' philosophy and creates a foundation upon which they can entertain and inspire.
There are plenty of early music ensembles out there. The field of historical performance is tremendously exciting and attracts many musicians who understand its purity and allure. The distinguishing feature of the International Baroque Players is our emphasis on communication. Of course the notes and markings are important — we have all spent enough time cultivating our talents in practise rooms to realise that, but this isn't where our attention finishes. To play the notes does not necessarily ensure the making of 'music' or the creativity that we strive for.
Where the International Baroque Players really succeed is in finding the expression of the composer, their sentiments and their intentions. Put simply, we are a group of friends who can bring together our talents, our insights and our opinions and work on music that we are passionate about. When our personnel draws together representatives from so many countries this is a truly enriching process. Our youth and enthusiasm are major factors in our performances, as it is guaranteed that no two performances will ever be the same. With such a close-knit group the opportunities for musical creativity and spontaneity are endless.
'...the group looks set to become a force to be reckoned with on the world music scene. All this in a matter of months."
Ann Morgan, "Who said Classical Music was dead?" : Arts Hub
'This was a terrific concert - the International Baroque Players are really going places' - Robert Matthew-Walker
General Manager - Aliye Cornish
Orchestral Manager - Adam Lord
Orchestral Assistant - Ruby Norman-Curran
Alternative means of contact can be found on the contact page.
website : Richard Sweeney & George Crawford
