Innovative instrumentation, unusual repertoire and an ensemble with a profound knowledge of historical performance practice makes this Irish Baroque Orchestra Linn debut unmissable. This programme of 18th-century concertos is an attractive listening tour through the German courts, revealing unknown jewels. The soloists, including Lisa Beznosiuk (OAE), Andreas Helm (Concentus Musicus Wien), Monica Huggett (Sonnerie) and Peter Whelan (Ensemble Marsyas) relish the opportunity to show off their skills.

Alongside the double cello Concerto by Vivaldi and Telemann’s Concerto for two violins and bassoon sit the lesser known, but equally brilliant, concertos by Graupner, Heinichen and Fasch. One of the most beautiful combinations is the Graupner Triple Concerto for oboe d’amore, viola d’amore and flute d’amore, which produces an exquisite blend of other-worldly colours. Wonderfully kaleidoscopic colours also pervade the concertos by Heinichen and Fasch, the latter proving just why Telemann and Bach held him in such high esteem.

Led by Monica Huggett the Irish Baroque Orchestra brings to life the beauty of baroque music as it was intended to be heard. The IBO explores the authentic playing techniques and performance styles of the 17th and 18th centuries, using period instruments; its exceptional musicians perform regularly throughout Ireland and abroad, and continue to receive widespread critical acclaim. Although the IBO has its roots in the past, it is a dynamic and constantly evolving orchestra with its sights firmly set on the future.

Monica Huggett’s expertise in the musical and social history of the Baroque era is unparalleled among performing musicians. Among her many prizes Monica Huggett has won two Gramophone awards, the Vantaa Baroque Energy Prize, the Diapason d'Or and has been nominated for a Grammy award.

‘…what really makes the IBO so worth hearing is the unified artistry and joyous, focused energy of its music-making under Huggett.’ - The Sunday Times

‘Hearing any one of these ‘amore’ instruments is rare enough, but three together creates a curiously haunting effect… an intriguing and enjoyable programme.’ Golden Plec

‘The IBO’s playing, in that edgily driven style that Huggett is so fond of, had a consistently exciting edge.’ - The Irish Times

Reviews

The [Irish Baroque Orchestra] reconfigures members of various European early-music outfits and makes its Linn debut with obscure concertos by Heinichen, Graupner and Fasch, as well as duo and trio concertos by Vivaldi and Telemann, featuring its own excellent rank and file. ... the playing is lovely, with great poise from Huggett and standout charismatic bassoon playing from Peter Whelan. Kate Molleson

The Guardian 20 May 2016

All in all, this is a glorious opportunity for the musicians of the Irish Baroque Orchestra to take centre stage, and they do so with devil-may-care aplomb. It’s as if after a day’s scrupulous rehearsal they kick off their shoes, let their hair down, and play for the sheer fun of it. Paul Riley

BBC Music Magazine August 2016