Featured Performers

• Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble

Program

• PURCELL (arr. Britten): Chacony in G minor, Z. 730

• NIELSEN: Serenata in vano, for clarinet, bassoon, horn, cello and double bass, FS. 68 (1914)

• Howard FERGUSON: Octet, Op. 4 (1933)

• BEETHOVEN: Septet in E flat, for clarinet, bassoon, horn, violin, viola, cello, and bass, Op. 20 (1800)

Drawn from the principal players of the world-famous chamber orchestra, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble is praised for its “splendid playing; impeccable sound and balance” (Gramophone).

The Academy Chamber Ensemble was formed in 1967, drawing its membership from the world-renowned chamber orchestra, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, which was itself founded by Sir Neville Marriner in 1958 and is currently led by Music Director Joshua Bell. The purpose behind the formation of the Chamber Ensemble was to perform the larger scale chamber music repertoire with players who customarily worked together, instead of the usual string quartet with additional guests. Play-directed by Academy Director / Leader Tomo Keller, the Chamber Ensemble now performs in multiple configurations from wind trios to string octets. Its touring commitments are extensive and include regular tours of Europe and North America, whilst recording contracts with Philips Classics, Hyperion, and Chandos have led to the release of over thirty CDs.

Impressive sophistication and complexity of phrasing, elegant articulation and an impeccable sense of balance… What sets the Academy apart from other ensembles is its exceptional musical intelligence.

Seen and Heard international

An ensemble of first-rate musicians, technically superb, generously expressive, and obviously enjoying themselves.

Dallas Morning News

Sponsors

Artist Sponsor: Sam B. and Lyndie Ersan 

Additional support from The Segerstrom Foundation