About Abendmusik - New York's Period Instrument String Band™

Artists 2022-2023

Past Artists

*Founding member

Abendmusik, New York’s Early Music String Band, showcases the rarely-performed repertoire of the late 16th and 17th centuries composed for string consort. The term “Abendmusik” refers to the free concert series established by the organist Franz Tunder in Lübeck churches in the 17th century. It was cultivated further by North German composer Dieterich Buxtehude in the early 18th century. Historically, Abendmusik programs featured sacred and secular vocal and instrumental solo and chamber works, as well as solo organ. The series became so popular, as a result of the free admission and the featured compositions, that it grew into a respectable cultural institution.

The string band, Abendmusik explores music from both western and eastern Europe (Italy, the Hapsburg Empire of Austria and Spain, Kroměřiž in Moravia, Poland, Holland, England, Denmark and France) on period instruments.

"The blending of styles" was a well-thought program concept. I was particularly impressed by the violinists sensitivity to 'gamba consort style' and the several solos, duets and trios that allowed each of you to shine." - Frederick Renz, Director, Early Music New York

"Awesome concert: intense, beautifully played to a rapt audience. Was especially impressed by the blend achieved by the two violins with the consort of four viols. White is complicated and maybe underappreciated but quite wonderful in his own universe. Loved the interspersing of a bit of Byrd and others to kind of clear the palate for more White. Performers were totally in the zone tonight!" – Nancy Tooney

You Tube Videos: 360 camera (move screen around with cursor to focus on individual players)