Continuo Connect — Profile // Manchester Baroque

Since our launch in 2019, Manchester Baroque has built a reputation for engaging and vibrant performances of historical music on period instruments. True to the traditions of Manchester as the world’s original modern city, we create concerts that are more than just music; creating talking points, placing a spotlight on our city’s musical heritage, performing the great Baroque works alongside lesser-known musical treasures, but above all playing in a style that brings this music back to life.

Manchester Baroque is a flexible ensemble, delivering a broad range of concerts to diverse audiences each season, including oratorios, orchestral concerts of concerti and smaller chamber music concerts within our Intimate Notes series. Programmes are curated by our Artistic Director, Dr Pauline Nobes. Partnerships are central to our approach to historical performance. Our concert series, creative engagement work and support of early-career musicians links closely to collaborations with partners across the cultural and education sectors, including the RNCM, Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester Cathedral, Manchester Libraries, Schools and Community Groups across Greater Manchester.

We believe in the power of music to change lives and, since our formation, have delivered diverse education projects to widen access, increase participation and enhance wellbeing through music. A core focus recently has been support of Ukranian refugees arriving in Manchester; since Spring 2022 we have provided hundreds of free tickets to Ukranian residents in Manchester and organised dedicated fundraising events.