Portland’s North Star Baroque, a new period-instrument orchestra, is set to launch its second season with a concert at Woodfords Congregational Church on October 26, 2023. Founded by Anna Pearlman, the orchestra aims to bring the vibrant sounds of the Baroque period to contemporary audiences. The musicians will perform compositions from the 1600s and 1700s using instruments authentic to that era or crafted in the same style.
During a rehearsal on Friday, Anna Pearlman, who also plays first violin, expressed her enthusiasm for the music of this period. Although her instrument dates to 1776, she noted that the Baroque era is generally categorized from 1600 to 1750, a time when composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi were prominent. “It’s still really, really old,” she said, laughing as she reflected on her lifelong passion for music, which began in her childhood.
Bringing Historical Music to Life
The rehearsal featured a lively rendition of a concerto by George Frideric Handel, filling the church with bright, energetic notes. Musicians collaborated closely, pausing to make notes in their sheet music and revisiting sections as needed. Pearlman described the first movement as a “grand entrance,” likening it to “walking down the red carpet.”
The Baroque period is often described as the beginning of modern music in terms of emotional expression. Musicians today liken the improvisational opportunities in Baroque music to those found in contemporary folk and jazz. The ensemble primarily plays on period instruments, which, while similar in appearance to modern counterparts, feature distinct differences. For example, violin bows from the Baroque era have a different shape, and strings were traditionally made from animal gut rather than synthetic materials.
Pearlman emphasized that the sound produced by these instruments is more transparent but does not fill large concert halls as modern orchestras do. This is why the group often performs in smaller venues, reflecting the intimate settings for which many of these pieces were originally composed.
A Unique Artistic Experience
With numerous Baroque orchestras and ensembles now operating throughout the United States, North Star Baroque stands out for its commitment to historical authenticity. Despite the growing popularity of this genre, musicians often travel considerable distances to perform. For instance, bassist Nathan Varga, who also plays with the Portland Symphony Orchestra, juggles his schedule to accommodate performances with both groups, transporting a period instrument alongside a modern one.
Violinist Sylvia Schwartz, who resides in Yarmouth, occasionally plays with the Baroque Orchestra of Maine, which features smaller ensembles. She noted that the upcoming concert will showcase 11 musicians and three singers, a configuration that balances robustness with flexibility. Schwartz described the music as warm and accessible, suggesting that it is well-suited for intimate settings. “It belongs in a living room,” she remarked.
While the North Star Baroque ensemble is relatively new, it draws on a rich tradition of early music. Martin Pearlman, Anna’s father and the founder of Boston Baroque in 1973, attended the rehearsal, offering guidance to his daughter. He reflected on the evolution of Baroque music over the past 50 years, noting that many of today’s musicians were born long after he established the first orchestra of its kind in North America.
“I think it’s music for our time,” he said. “People who practice this music aren’t antiquarians.” Martin Pearlman plans to move to Maine to be closer to his daughter and granddaughter, who has already begun her musical journey.
The concert on October 26 promises to be a captivating experience, inviting audiences to explore the distinct sounds of the Baroque era.
For more information about North Star Baroque and ticket details, visit northstarbaroque.org.
