Basso Celestia, a Baroque ensemble of professional musicians, will perform the music of Barbara Strozzi and Isabella Leonarda at Emmanuel Episocal on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. The composers are considered the first women to publish collections of music under their own names.

Graduates of the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, the musicians will perform an assortment of sacred and secular soprano duets. The program will offer a journey of women speaking through women, of navigating the complexities of life, and of finding passion and strength in extreme emotions.

Leah Wenger, originally of Harrisonburg and the group’s administrator, and Morayo Akande are featured sopranos. The group includes Katerina Kotar on baroque cello, Cameron Kuzepski on harpsichord, and guest artists on recorder and violin.

The early music ensemble performs unusual or underperformed pieces that tell a story. Leveraging fields such as art history, psychology, healthcare, historical dress and textiles, and religion, Basso Celestia’s interactive style not only entertains but also educates, bringing early music to life in innovative ways. Drawing on expertise in diverse musical traditions, from French sacred music to Italian secular music and folk traditions of all kinds, the ensemble strives to create dynamic and varied programs that resonate across cultural boundaries and can be performed in many different types of venues.

Basso Celestia is committed to nurturing a collective of musicians who are dedicated to curiosity and creativity, all while spreading early music education and appreciation within local communities. In 2024, the ensemble toured in the Mid-Atlantic region featuring François Couperin’s Leçons des Ténèbres.

A $10-$30 suggested donation can be offered in person or by Venmo to offset tour costs. Donations will help support the future of the group as it builds towards a 501c3 status.

Contact Leah Wenger, administer, at leahjwenger@gmail.com or 571-762-2249