Rachel Podger, a distinguished British violinist, is widely celebrated for her virtuosity and profound interpretations of Baroque and Classical repertoire. Born on October 22, 1968, in England, Podger's contributions to the world of period performance and historical practice have established her as an authoritative figure in classical music. Educated at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, she went on to co-found the ensemble Florilegium and later became the leader of the highly acclaimed ensemble The English Concert.

Her passion for early music has led her to explore and record a vast array of works from composers such as Bach, Vivaldi, and Mozart, often playing on period instruments to capture the authentic sound intended by the composers. Among her most recent releases are the innovative "Bach: Goldberg Variations Reimagined," where she offers a fresh take on Bach's enduring masterpiece, and "C.P.E. Bach: Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin," showcasing her articulate and nuanced play. Podger's recording of "Vivaldi: Le Quattro Stagioni" reflects her technical brilliance and deep understanding of Vivaldi's dynamic concertos. A dedicated pedagogue, Rachel also shares her expertise through teaching, and as the visionary artistic director of the Brecon Baroque Festival, she continues to influence the next generation of period-performance enthusiasts. Her recordings have earned her numerous accolades, including the Baroque Instrumental Gramophone Award and the Diapason d’Or, attesting to her position as one of the premier Baroque violinists of her time.

Genres

Baroque Violin

Classical Performance

Historically Informed Performance

Violin

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Latest Release

Haydn: Piano Trio in G Major, Hob. XV:25 "Gypsy Rondo": III. Rondo all'Ongarese. Presto (Arr. Farrington for Recorder, Violin, Cello & Harpsichord)

Joseph Haydn•

Lucie Horsch•

Rachel Podger

Single - Released September 13, 2024