June 16 - 29
Application Deadline: May 20
2019 Institute: Music of the Enemies of Louis XIV
featuring a performance of Purcell's Dido and Aeneas on Friday, June 28
During his long reign (1643-1715), Louis XIV was engaged in at least four large-scale wars. Although his alliances, and those arrayed against French-led forces, shifted frequently, it is only a slight exaggeration to say that virtually every major European power was at one time or another his enemy. This is not to imply that all things French were spurned by his foes, as, despite their understandable fear of French political and military expansionist policies, they in many cases found French culture irresistibly beguiling. Our programming will not split hairs as to who was battling the Sun King at any given moment, but will encompass many different English and Continental composers who worked during the Age of Louis XIV.
The Oberlin Baroque Performance Institute (BPI), the premiere summer workshop focusing on baroque instruments and voice, will mark its 48th year of preparing musicians to perform some of the great works on period instruments. Learn from faculty and resident artists, and participate in master classes, ensembles, and student concerts to practice baroque techniques and gain a greater appreciation of this unique musical genre.
The Friday 28 June concert will include a performance of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. Lucas Harris will prepare a chorus from the BPI student body (all singers and instrumentalists are welcome to participate), and dancers from the intermediate baroque dance class will also be featured.
BPI is open to musicians of any level of experience on baroque instruments or voice. You’ll be exposed to expert coaching, master classes, and opportunities to collaborate and perform with other musicians. The session concludes with a student concert of music learned during the institute. Additionally, the Conservatory of Music has a large collection of instruments available to be used by participants.
The internationally renowned faculty led by Artistic Director, Kenneth Slowik, and the Oberlin Baroque Ensemble—Mark Edwards, Michael Lynn, Marilyn McDonald, Catharina Meints —will again host daily master classes and ensemble coaching.
Faculty and student concerts promise to offer memorable listening and music-making experiences, lectures, and informal open discussions to stimulate the intellect. The ever-popular baroque dance classes provide excellent physical exercise as well as a kinetic appreciation for the rhythms that underlie the music of the baroque era.