Musica Gardenia
is a new period instrument ensemble, formed with the ambition to create performances which are high-level, exciting, and fun for the musicians and audiences alike. The ensemble aims not only to perform the standard Baroque repertoire, but also to reach new audiences and display the many sides of historical performance though imaginative programming, exploration of seldom-played repertoire and thematic performances.
Musica Gardenia has chosen to operate with a flexible continuo team, to allow more diversity and authenticity in programming and performance: currently, we are working on programmes with harpsichord, lute and chamber organ.
Why Gardenia?
The Gardenia, a white-petaled flower, has been used throughout the ages as a symbol of seduction and strong emotions – love, joy, purity and beauty. Perhaps because of these romantic images or its beguiling, powerful aroma, the gardenia has gained a reputation for being irresistible to those who come across it.
What better parallel can be drawn with this than the passion and power of the music of the Baroque and 17th century? As the Gardenia flower has bewitched generations of men and women; so Musica Gardenia hopes to captivate audiences and listeners with the emotions and flavours of the music we perform.
