If the last time you heard Shakespearean sonnets read aloud was in your high school English class, and you doodled in your notebook, you?re probably not alone. And if the very thought of the dulcet tones of Renaissance music has you thinking about a long nap, take heart ? there are many who?d agree.
But beware; “Music and Poetry of the Renaissance” may just inspire you to take another look into the 16th-century version of today?s multimedia presentation.
“I want people to be interested in the beautiful integration of the music and poetry of the Renaissance,” said Peabody student Andrew Arceci, who has compiled a three-person program exploring the entertainments of an Elizabethan court.
Arceci, who plays a period cello-like instrument called the viola de gamba, put together what he calls “an odd trio” with “an interesting idea that the three of us wanted to explore.” First, he elicited the help of a conservatory friend, soprano Emily Noel.
“Once I heard him play and her sing, I said ?I?m in,? ” said local actress Molly Moores, who explained the “trio” merely replaces one musician with a singing voice, and the other with a speaking voice.
Arceci?s hour-long presentation, performed as court minstrels would have done it, consists of four sets of music, song and recited poetry that he maintains is as relevant today as when Elizabeth I clapped for an encore.
“People are people,” he said. “Our feelings and ideas are the same from generation to generation.”
The first set is an homage to youth, with 17th-century composer Christopher Simpson?s “Prelude in E minor” opening the show, followed by Shakespeare?s “Sonnet No. 8.” Tribute is paid to poet John Skelton, along with composers Tobias Hume and William Lawes, as the program weaves love, faith and longing toward its reflective conclusion of the passing of time.
IF YOU GO
Music and Poetry of the Renaissance
» Venue: An die Musik LIVE! 409 N. Charles St., Baltimore
» Time: 7:30 p.m. Thursday
» Tickets: $15; $12 students and seniors
» More Info: 410-385-2638
