ensembleF2
BIOGRAPHY
ensembleF2 is an unique group in concept and make-up, founded by keyboard player and director Gary Cooper (more), and clarinettist Jane Booth.
ensembleF2 will consist of invited international virtuoso chamber players, musicologists and experts from Europe and North America acclaimed for their specialism and research in the playing of instruments appropriate to the period, and for their knowledge and insight into historical performance practices. With such expertise available, the conductor becomes unnecessary, just it was for much of the repertoire and period explored by the ensemble.
ensembleF2 will feature repertoire ranging from early baroque to early C20th music, with a size ranging from chamber ensemble to chamber orchestra, and with each musician bringing a wealth of artistic and technical expertise of the highest calibre, presenting music for audiences in a totally distinctive and refreshingly informed way.
ensembleF2 iis launched in Spring 2009 at London’s Wigmore Hall, with two complimentary concerts showcasing the players’ passion & insight into the performance practices of two great figures in late C18th music.
The launch concert is on 27 Feb 2009, and commemorates the 200th anniversary of Haydn's death. The programme is entitled 'La Passione', and presents two of Haydn's so-called Sturm und Drang symphonies, using the small orchestral forces had available at the Esterházy court. The concert is under the curatorship of violinist Rachel Podger (more) and keyboard player Gary Cooper (more), who also appear as soloists in two concertos by Haydn.
In the second concert on 17 April 2009, ensembleF2 presents a partner launch concert inspired by the wind instrument closest to Mozart's creative heart. Conceived by period clarinet specialist, Jane Booth, and joined by natural horn specialist, Anneke Scott, this programme focuses on celebrated chamber works written during Mozart's time in Vienna, culminating in the great Clarinet Quintet.