About

The Wren Masters specialize in the historical performance of 17th and 18th century music on period instruments: baroque violin, viola da gamba and harpsichord. Hailed by the Washington Post for their “crisp ensemble, mellowness, and stylistic awareness,” the musicians of this baroque ensemble are members of the W&M Applied Music Faculty, and the Governor’s Musik of Colonial Williamsburg. Originally formed in 2005, the Wrens are named after their favorite performance space, William & Mary’s Christopher Wren Chapel, circa 1693.

The Wren Masters baroque ensemble will present a program featuring music from the Old World and the New during the early 17th century, reflecting the time surrounding the Jamestown settlement. Music from Germany and Italy by composers Buxtehude, Kriegher, Schmelzer, and Castello will begin the program, followed by a musical description of the voyage to and settlement of Jamestown. Historical quotations read by audience volunteers will accompany musical selections by Byrd, Holborne, Hume, Munday, and others, illustrating this era of early American history. The Flowers of the Forrest and Bonny Jean of Aberdeen, tunes from the Highlands of Scotland brought to the Highlands of Virginia, will conclude the concert.