THE museS' Delight
historically informed
chamber ensemble
Euterpe, The Muse of music and lyric poetry by Simon Vouet, 17th century
German flautist, maker, composer and author, Johann Joachim Quantz is quoted as saying “For that which does not come from the heart does not easily reach the heart.” Well, the heart was exactly where the music came from at the first 2019 concert of The Muses’ Delight.
Bronwen Whyatt, Classic Melbourne
Charming audiences since 2017, The Muses’ Delight are one of Australia’s premier historically informed chamber ensembles.
Based in Melbourne and led by traverso (aka historical flute/s) player Meredith Beardmore, the ensemble is serious about historically informed performance practice. Time travellers at heart, they believe that using period instruments and informed practices provides exciting new ways to discover fresh and interesting sonic possibilities. Their rigorous historical approach is coupled with intelligent programming and a warm and inviting performance manner.
Exploring music from the 17th to 19th centuries, Meredith is joined by a range of talented period performers. The Muses’ Delight have performed to sold out audiences on their debut tour to regional NSW and VIC, have been guest artists at the Peninsula Festival, performed at intimate house concerts and internationally at the Urbino Early Music Festival in Italy. The Muses' Delight made their Melbourne Recital Centre debut early in 2022.
Composers and artists from the 17th and 18th centuries were inspired by the ancient Greek and Roman gods, and our name is a nod to this tradition. However, we dedicate our name to the women in this mythology, the nine muses, and in particular, Euterpe, the muse of music and whose name literally translates as the “giver of much delight”. The Muses’ Delight aims to not only please the muses, but of course, you our audience!
CONCERTS
Messengers for Elegant Society
Meredith Beardmore (flute), Lizzy Welsh (violin), Edwina Cordingley (cello), Donald Nicolson (harpsichord)
The gazette Mercure galant (later Mercure de France) dictated what was in vogue in 17th and 18th century France; all the best fashion, gossip, debates, and of course, music. Composers Leclair and Mondonville featured extensively, particularly their performances at the Concert Spirituel at Tuileries Palace, believed to be one of the first public concert series. Hear their music performed by some of Australia’s best historically informed musicians. Be transported back to the height of style and sophistication with The Muses’ Delight!
6pm Wednesday 25 May
Melbourne Recital Centre
31 Sturt St, Southbank
Tickets $25 ($20 Concession)
www.melbournerecital.com.au/events/2022/messengers-for-elegant-society/
