Boston Baroque

CONTACT:

68 Leonard Street
Belmont, MA 02478
617-489-9723
www.bostonbaroque.org

Carole Friedman, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

Boston Baroque was America’s first permanent baroque orchestra and chorus, founded in 1973 by Martin Pearlman, still its director, to create “world-class performances of Baroque and Classical music on period instruments” — i.e., like those used in the 17th and 18th centuries. Their sound is softer, sweeter and more intimate than their powerful symphony-hall descendants. Pearlman’s purpose was “not to recreate the past, but to create performances that speak to modern audiences with vigor, freshness and authenticity of spirit.” His concerts and 15 internationally praised recordings focus on a mix of established and rediscovered masterworks — e.g., Handel’s Messiah, Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos — and forgotten music by early American composers. It’s a winning combination; BB’s annual concert series attracts 10,000 attendees, of whom nearly 900 are subscribers. Revenues are 45% earned, 55% donated (61% by individuals). These are great numbers in classical music, and BB is now completing its first capital campaign: $2 million for special projects and endowment. Boston is arguably the world capital of early music (Catalogue ’97, Boston Early Music Festival & Exhibition), and BB is one of our most distinguished and successful musical ensembles. You can participate in its success.

(2005: CULTURE: Arts: Performing: Music and Dance)