Cambridge University Collegium Musicum

Patrons: Sir John Eliot Gardiner, Prof. Christopher Hogwood, Sir Roger Norrington Artistic Directors: Margaret Faultless, Dr Martin Ennis The Cambridge University Collegium Musicum is an ensemble that promotes and facilitates the study of historically-informed performance practice. In 2006, the University’s Faculty of Music commissioned copies of baroque instruments from leading makers in this country and abroad. These instruments are made available to musicians selected from across the university, who receive regular coaching in historically-informed performing techniques and are given opportunities to perform under the direction of and in collaboration with many distinguished musicians. In-depth experience of baroque instruments and performing techniques is a rare opportunity at student level and the group also offers opportunities to players of modern instruments who share an interest in performance practice. Recent projects have included performances of the Monteverdi Vespers, Bach’s B minor mass, a cycle of Brandenburg concertos and collaborations with the University Chamber Choir. For the last four years the orchestra has collaborated with the Academy of Ancient Music in side-by-side workshops directed by Richard Egarr. In 2015, the ensemble will perform at St John’s College in the CUMS lunchtime series, with the University Chamber Choir in Bach’s Magnificat, and again in a workshop with members of AAM.