Washington College 2008-2009 Concert Series Goes for Baroque with Season Opener

Musica Pacifica Hailed as 'Among the Best in the World'

Chestertown, MD — The 57th season of the Washington College Concert Series begins with a performance by the acclaimed baroque ensemble Musica Pacifica at the Norman James Theatre on Tuesday, October 28, at 8 p.m.

Led by artistic directors Judith Linsenberg on recorder and Elizabeth Blumenstock on violin, Musica Pacifica has been performing, touring and recording since 1990. The music press has lauded the group as "some of the finest baroque musicians in America" (American Record Guide) and "among the best in the world" (Alte Musik Aktuell).

Musica Pacifica's stylish, high-energy virtuoso performances consistently receive enthusiastic reviews from critics and audiences alike. These qualities have led to appearances in the most prestigious chamber and early-music concert series in America and Europe. They have three times been a featured ensemble at the Berkeley Early Music Festival, and their first appearance there was cited in Early Music (UK) as "perhaps the standout of the entire festival."

They have performed at festivals in Germany and Austria and have been heard on German National radio as well as on National Public Radio's "Performance Today" and "Harmonia."

Musica Pacifica's six CD releases have won national and international awards, including the highest ratings in several CD magazines and each one being chosen as "CD of the Month" by the early music journal Alte Musik Aktuell.

At home in the San Francisco Bay area, the artists are members of Philharmonia Baroque, and they appear with many other prominent early music ensembles nationally and abroad.

The 2008-2009 Washington College Concert Series will continue with performances by the Rittenhouse Jazz Quintet on November 15, the Vim Saxophone Quartet on January 24, soprano Louise Toppin on February 13, and the Attacca String Quartet on April 17.

All concerts are held at the College's Norman James Theatre in William Smith Hall. Single tickets can be purchased at the door—$15 for adults, $5 for youth and students. Season tickets are available for $50 per person in advance or at the box office on performance nights. For more information, call 410/778-7839.

October 14, 2008