Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

Founded in 1986, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE) is a British period instrument ensemble based in London. Renowned for their commitment to historically informed performances, the OAE is a collective of musicians dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of music from the Baroque, Classical, and early Romantic periods. Unlike most orchestras, the OAE operates without a principal conductor, instead opting for collaborative artistic partnerships with various guest conductors and soloists, fostering a unique and dynamic approach to each of their performances and recordings.

The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment stands out for their versatility and depth in the classical repertoire, as evinced by their array of recordings. Their adaptations of J.S. Bach's Harpsichord Concertos, including the beloved BWV 1052 and the reconstructed BWV 1059, showcase the meticulous attention to baroque authenticity that defines their work. Their Easter Oratorio and Mass in B Minor further solidify their reverence for Bach's oeuvre. Beyond Bach, the OAE's discography spans a wide range of composers, with dedicated albums to the romantic depth of Brahms' Piano Concertos, the operatic flair in "The Crown: Heroic Arias for Senesino," and the lush harmonies of Duruflé's liturgical compositions. Their musical explorations also resurrect less frequently performed works, such as Rameau's "Anacréon" and C.P.E. Bach's Symphonies, emphasizing their role as curators of both the esteemed and the neglected gems of classical music history. Through their engaging performances and educational outreach, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment continues to enlighten contemporary audiences with the timeless power of historical music.

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