Freiburg Baroque Orchestra

The Freiburg Baroque Orchestra (Freiburger Barockorchester) consists of 29 musicians dedicated to preserving and promoting historically informed performance practice. The acclaimed orchestra was founded in 1987 and is based in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Gottfried von der Goltz (violin) and Cecilia Bernardini (violin) are both the artistic directors, alternating the duties of musical arrangement for their concerts. As an orchestra and an ensemble they are widely sought after, often attracting renowned conductors, and they are currently in Melbourne offering three separate concerts.

The first performance included works by Johann Christian Bach (Symphony in G minor Op.6 No.6) and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Piano Concerto No.9 in E-flat K.271, Violin Concerto No.5 in A K.219, Symphony No.40 in G minor K.550) and featured internationally celebrated Australian pianist, Kristian Bezuidenhout (fortepiano). The performance was sublime bringing to life the delicate baroque tones and sounds. The extra physical demands of playing historic instruments are especially evident with the fortepiano. Bezuidenhout’s performance was stunning with an often-electrifying laser focus on the instrument and the amazing sounds he was able to produce.

As was customary in the 18^th century the orchestra is conducted from the podium of Concertmaster by Goltz. The generous program is very accessible and offers familiar or recognisable music for all kinds of audience members. The magnificence of the orchestra is well suited to the excellence of the recital centre. This is an opportunity to experience and savour some exhilarating music and witness some spectacular performances.

Patricia Di Risio