L'Archibudelli is an acclaimed classical music ensemble renowned for its exceptional performances of chamber music repertoire, especially from the Classical and Romantic eras. Formed in the late 20th century by Dutch cellist Anner Bylsma, who was deeply respected for his expertise on period instruments, the group is characterized by its use of historical performance practices and instruments that resonate with the textures and timbres contemporaneous with the music's composition.

The name "L'Archibudelli" reflects the ensemble's string-centric focus—the term is a playful Italianization of "archi," meaning strings, and could be loosely translated as "the little bows." Composed of a rotating roster of virtuosic musicians who are specialists in early music, the group's core often featured violinists Vera Beths and Jürgen Kussmaul, among others. Their discography, deeply ingrained in the chamber music canon, includes introspective readings of the Mendelssohn String Quintets, an exploration of the profound depth in Haydn's last string quartets, and a captivating performance of Brahms' String Sextets. Their recordings of Mozart's Clarinet Quintet in A Major, K. 581, a thrilling dive into Beethoven's chamber works, and the pairing of Mendelssohn and Gade in the String Octets, have further cemented L'Archibudelli's reputation as an ensemble of both scholastic insight and emotive musicianship. The ensemble's approach brings a refreshing authenticity to the music, inviting listeners to experience the works as their original audiences might have.

Genres

Chamber Ensemble

Historically Informed Performance

Latest Release

Mendelssohn: String Quintets 1 & 2

Felix Mendelssohn•

L'Archibudelli

Album - 8 Tracks - Released March 1, 2000