Folger Consort is an acclaimed early music ensemble based in Washington, D.C., known for its scholarly yet accessible renditions of music from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Established in 1977 by lutenist Christopher Kendall and bass viol player Robert Eisenstein, the consort took its name from the Folger Shakespeare Library, which remains its home for performances and scholarly activities. With a repertoire that spans over seven centuries of European music, Folger Consort has distinguished itself through a commitment to historically informed performance practices and educational outreach, often employing period instruments to capture the authentic sounds of the times.

Over the years, the ensemble has released a wide array of albums, carving out a niche for those passionate about the rich tapestry of early music. Their more recent recordings, such as "Christmas in New Spain," showcase the intricate beauty of Renaissance polyphony and historical cross-cultural encounters in music. Albums like "The Tempest" and "This England: Music From the Time of Shakespeare" reflect the group's connection to the dramatic works of the Bard and the vocal and instrumental music surrounding his legacy. Through their expansive discography, including "A Medieval Christmas" and "Playing with Fire: The Art of the Renaissance Instrumentalist," Folger Consort invites listeners to experience the evocative and often spiritual dimensions of historical music, delivered with academic rigor and a deep passion for the art form.

Genres

American Early Music

Early Music Ensemble

Latest Release

Christmas in New Spain

Juan Gutiérrez de Padilla•

Folger Consort

Album - 20 Tracks - Released November 12, 2014