Musica Alta Musica Alta is the early music ensemble of Princeton University, sponsored by the Department of Music. We are a forum for the performance of early music and the exploration of performance practice issues. Instruments The Music Department's collection of period instruments is available to members of the group for performance and private lessons. This collection currently includes consorts of viols, recorders, and krummhorns, as well as a lute, portative organ, shawm, sackbut, and harpsichord. Our repertoire extends from the Medieval to Baroque periods, with the focus of each year's major performance rotating between Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque themes. Recent Performances Recent performances include 16th and early 17th century music from composers serving the English Chapel Royal, French Baroque theater music, Spanish Music from the Siglo de Oro, a concert version of Purcell's Dido and Aeneas, and a program of Handelian chamber music for the 2007 American Handel Festival. Current Performances For the 2007-2008 season our major production will be a performance, in the spring, of Vivaldi's serenata 'La Senna Festeggiante' along with some festive psalms for small chorus and orchestra. There is also a proposal for a program of Medieval music, to occur during the fall term, in conjunction with the interdisciplinary course 'Introduction to Western Culture.' Recorder and viol consorts have existed in years when there is sufficient interest, and the group also aims to support members in pursuing their own performance projects, especially student recitals. Auditions There will be auditions in the fall for the roles of the three principals in the Vivaldi serenata. Otherwise, all interested performers (except returning members) are asked to contact the ensemble director to arrange a short informal meeting. Vocalists and instrumentalists are equally welcome, and instrumentalists may elect to sing or take up one of the period instruments available for our use (highly encouraged). Prior experience with early music is desirable but not required. Rehearsals Rehearsals are usually once per week (except close to performance dates), for two hours per session. Recorder and viol consorts schedule their own rehearsal times. Annual Kick-off Meeting Tuesday, September 18th, 5-6pm Woolworth 102 For more information, please contact the director, Nick Lockey, at nlockey@princeton.edu