October 9, 2016 – Handel to Haydn – 3 pm
Brilliant compositions for two harpsichords, from late-baroque Handel to early-classical Haydn. Music includes works by three sons of Bach: Johann Christian (the London Bach); J.C.F. (youngest of Johann Sebastian’s composer sons); and Wilhelm Friedemann (the eldest), whose two-harpsichord sonata is simply stunning. Harpsichordists Beverly Biggs & Elaine Funaro enjoy a ten-year history of performing together, having done regional performances, touring with baroque programs, and world and national premieres of new works.
PROGRAM
- G.F. Handel – Suite in c minor for two harpsichords
- Johann Christian Bach – Sonata in G major, W.A. 21 – Allegro
- Wilhelm Friedemann Bach – Sonata Concertante in F major
- J.C.F. Bach – Sonata in C major (four hands) – Rondo
- Haydn – Hob. XVIII/11, Concerto in D major
See postcard here: oct-2016-bb_postcard-front
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January 22, 2017 – Echoes of Love – 3 pm Beloved sopranos Florence Peacock and Penelope Jensen reunite for this program of music focused on love. The program features Venus & Adonis, a secular cantata by George F. Handel, with its text about beauty and passion. Handel is also represented with two arias, Spesso mi sento dir and Sei bugiarda, umana steme. To these are added arias by J.S. Bach which extoll the open heart and the longing of the soul. The delightful Echo Aria from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio provides a light and happy touch. The instrumental ensemble is William Thauer, baroque oboe and oboe da caccia; Christopher Nunnally, baroque cello; and Beverly Biggs, harpsichord. They will accompany the vocal works and offer instrumental works as well. Tickets ($18) are available in advance from Preservation Chapel Hill (http://www.preservationchapelhill.org/baroque-beyond) and make wonderful stocking stuffers. Tickets will also be available at the door.
March 12, 2017 – The Splendors of Italy – 3 pm
Guest artists Frances Blaker, recorder, and Keith Collins, baroque bassoon, are featured in a program of Italian masterpieces by famous composers like Vivaldi, as well as Bononcini, Besozzi, and Veracini, whose works deserve greater exposure. Veracini came from a large family of musicians; survived a shipwreck; and twenty years ago, had an asteroid named for him. Barbara Krumdieck, baroque cello; Beverly Biggs, harpsichord.