Acrpost: A Project of the Pacific Association of Artist Run Centres

Event Description

The Victoria Baroque Players will start the New Year off with an 18th century bang by taking to the road with Kati Debretzeni, a violinist The Independent calls an “outright star” and whose recordings have been hailed by the BBC as a “smashing performance.” The series "A Festival of Concertos” includes performances in Victoria, Metchosin, and Nanaimo, culminating in a recording session for the group’s debut album. UK-based Debretzeni will also be on hand to coach local young talent during her public workshop with the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra, with admission upon donation.

Consisting of works for multiple soloists by hit maker composers Vivaldi and Telemann, as well as lesser-known masters Graupner, Fux, and D'Allbaco, the tour’s programme will delight both the die-hard and novice Baroque listener. Listeners are encouraged to explore the contrasting textures and colours of the ensemble's instrumentation, which includes horn, flute, bassoon, and strings. As one of Europe’s most sought-after period violinists, Debretzeni heads up the English Baroque Soloists and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and has recorded for numerous labels as a soloist, leader, and chamber musician. She features as soloist on two versions of Bach's Brandenburg concertos: first with the European Brandenburg Ensemble under Trevor Pinnock (Gramophone Award winner, 2008), and again with the English Baroque Soloists, directed by John Eliot Gardiner.



Now in its third season, the Victoria Baroque Players has established itself as one of the finest Early Music ensembles in Western Canada, drawing on talent from Victoria, Vancouver, and Seattle to present concerts that are informed, lively, and full of depth. Since its formation, the group has performed two seasons at its home venue, the Church of St. John the Divine in Victoria, as well as appearing as guest ensemble at numerous concerts and festivals around the Pacific Northwest.



Given the breadth of talent on board, including several expatriate European members who share many of the same prestigious credits their English guest presents, Debretzeni is in good company and all should be in top form to record following the tour. Don’t miss Victoria Baroque Players with Kati Debretzeni, violin as they bring “A Festival of Concertos” to a church near you.