Berliner Barock Solisten (Instrumental Ensemble)

Founded: 1995 - Berlin, Germany

The Berliner Barock Solisten (= BBS) were founded in 1995 by predominantly leading members of the Berlin Philharmonic and particularly famous Berlin specialists of Ancient Music. Famous practicians of authentic performance, such as Nikolaus Harnoncourt, Philippe Herreweghe and John Eliot Gardiner to name but a few, have been working successfully together with the Philharmonics for many years. The resulting enthusiasm for music from especially the 17^th and 18^th centuries was a major impulse for the foundation of the BBS.

Depending on programme choice, the BBS comprises of between 9 and 16 musicians who work regularly together, alongside their various other artistic commitments. In its endeavour to adhere to stylistically authentic interpretations, the BBS combine using old but modernized instruments, various tunings, gut strings and the use of bows from varying periods, depending on the relevant historical performance practices.

With Rainer Kussmaul, First Concertmaster of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra from 1993 until 1998, the BBS, from their foundation, have been fortunate to have an artistic leader of international acclaim and experience, particularly in the field of baroque music. Kussmaul and his musicians have made it their special task, not only to perform the standard baroque repertoire but also to introduce their audiences to unjustly forgotten works and compositions by lesser known Old Masters. Tours of the BBS have so far lead them throughout Germany, other European countries and Asia. Further tours are planned.

The recordings of the BBS are available on EMI-Classics among others. Further project are being prepared. In each year 2001, 2002 and 2003, a CD of the BBS has been awarded an Echo Klassik.

More Photos

Source: Berliner Barock Solisten Website
Contributed by Aryeh Oron (September 2004)

Rainer Kussmaul: Short Biography | RIAS-Kammerchor | Berliner Barock Solisten | Recordinga of Vocal Works | Recordings of Instrumental Works
Individual Recordings: Thomas Quasthoff: Bach Cantatas

Links to other Sites

Berliner Barock Solisten (Official Website) [German/English]
Salzburg Festival 2004 - WHITSUN 2005

Konzertsaison 2004/2005: Berliner Barock Solisten (Amberg) [German]
:EMI Music Germany: Berliner Barock Solisten [German]