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The Newberry Consort |
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David Douglass,
Director
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The Newberry Consort:
David Douglass,
Ellen Hargis,
Mary Springfels,
Drew Minter.
Ensemble-in-residence at the Newberry Library, Northwestern University's School of Music,
and the University of Chicago. |
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Our programs are made possible in part with funding from the Illinois Arts Council
(a state agency), a CityArts Program 4 grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs,
the Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation, the Anne P. Lederer Foundation, the NIB Foundation,
and many generous individuals who constitute the Friends of the Newberry Consort. |
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The Newberry Consort, an early-music, original-instrument chamber ensemble,
is a constituent of the Newberry Library's Center for Public Programs.
The Consort brings early music to the general public through
performances, recordings,
and related educational activities. The Consort draws on the Library's holdings in the music of
the thirteenth through seventeenth centuries, using original sources and scholarly editions as the
bases for its performances. The Consort provides both an important means of public outreach
and a window on the Newberry Library's rich music collections.
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Newberry Consort News
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My experiences as Musician-in-Residence and Director of the Consort have been an adventure not unlike
a treasure hunt, but a treasure hunt unlike any other. On the way to finding a particular gem I know must
exist here in the stacks and vault, I inevitably discover one priceless gem after another, each worthy of
an entire program centered on the theme it suggests. I wander through an embarrassment of artistic and
cultural riches extending back to the thirteenth century, all of them waiting patiently to be brought
to life before Chicago audiences.
The 2008-09 series for the Newberry Consort features the treasures of the Newberry Library’s music collection,
in particular, the work of two giants of music history, George Friedrich Handel and Francesco Landini.
Although they inhabited different worlds, Handel in eighteenth-century London and Landini in fourteenth-century
Florence, each was immensely popular and generated a fame that endures to this day. The resources of the
Newberry Library allow me to bring those worlds to you.
In addition, for 2008-09 season we inaugurate a yearly memorial concert for the late eminent musicologist
and Chicago resident Howard Mayer Brown. Howard was influential in the creation of the Newberry Consort,
but was also an inspiring mentor to many today’s most renowned early music performers and scholars.
Typical of his generosity, he donated his estate to the Library, and his massive archives of music and
research papers will provide a treasure trove of unique programs, each reflecting his interests and insights,
for years to come.
And as is always the case, these musical treasures will be performed by the world’s finest early music artists.
Each concert will provide opportunities for them to shine, and not just through their masterful interpretations.
Improvisation will be an exciting component of every concert, giving listeners a truly once in a lifetime
experience. Won't you join us?
- David Douglass
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Coming Events
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Handel in Miniature
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George Frideric Handel was a consummate showman, able to write music that was both intellectually
stimulating and easily accessible, and one of the few composers to remain consistently popular from
his era of the early eighteenth century to our own. The respect for his work that is held in the eyes
of performers and musicologists is dwarfed only by his appeal to the public at large, entirely through
his ability to write music of astonishing beauty. The Newberry Consort will present some of Handel's
greatest hits, in miniature, through the artistry of Dutch recorder virtuosa Marion Verbruggen,
Baroque diva Ellen Hargis, Handel specialist and Newberry audience favorite Drew Minter,
harpsichord wizard David Schrader, and Consort Director and gambist David Douglass.
Thursday, October 16, 2008, 2 pm:
Open Rehearsal, Ruggles Hall, Newberry Library
Friday, October 17, 2008, 8 pm:
Concert, Ruggles Hall, Newberry Library
(pre-concert lecture at 7 pm)
Saturday, October 18, 2008, 8 pm:
Concert, Khorsabad Gallery, Oriental Institute, Hyde Park
(pre-concert lecture at 7 pm)
Sunday, October 19, 2008, 3 pm:
Matinee concert, Lutkin Hall, Northwestern University, Evanston
Purchase tickets on line, or subscribe to the whole season
right here!
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Information about the Consort's history, projects, and background. Also see the press kit in formation. |
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Each Saturday before a Newberry Consort weekend, Director David Douglass
presents a seminar at the Library to discuss in depth the themes of the following weekend's concerts.
Follow the link for full details.
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Listening Station
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Hear selections from the Newberry Consort's first CD,
Musick For Severall Friends!:
Track 13: John Wilson -- Do Not Fear to Put Thy Feet
Track 16: Matthew Locke -- Courant from Suite in g minor
Hear selections from the most recent CD, Puzzles and Perfect Beauty: Italian Music at the End of the Middle Ages:
Track 2: Lorenzo da Firenze -- Ballata: Donna e fu
Track 3: Matteo da Parugia -- Ballade: Se je me plaing
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Learn about the music we perform and what life was like when this music was first heard. Read original program notes, and view past concert booklets online. |
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Learn how you or your organization can present the Newberry Consort; view sample programs. |
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If you'd like to contact us, or wish to be included in our mailing list, send us an e-mail message with your name, address, and daytime phone. |
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