BaroqueSHOT#1 - Bach, unprepared

Baroquestock 10th Birthday - 'No Man is An island'

Fora is the duo project of recorder player Olivia Petryszak and keyboardist Matthew Brown. Together, they bring a fresh, imaginative approach to historical performance, combining virtuosity with spontaneity in ambitious and innovative programming. Their work frequently explores improvisation, arrangement, and composition, pushing the boundaries of their instruments while staying rooted in historical practice.

Having performed across the UK as a duo and individually across Europe with several renowned ensembles such as the Academy of Ancient Music, Polish Royal Opera and Capella Cracoviensis, Fora’s music-making is shaped by extensive experience on international stages. They have collaborated with and received masterclasses from leading early musicians, including Erik Bosgraaf, Maurice Steger, and Rachel Podger, all of whom have influenced their distinctive approach. Fora consider their artistic vision to be one that challenges conventional perspectives on early music.

Fora was born out of a desire to engage with historical music as a living, evolving art form. They reject the idea that early music should be treated as a relic of the past, instead embracing it with the same creativity and individuality as their 17th and 18th century inspirations. Olivia Petryszak is an in-demand recorder player across the globe, known for her distinctive sound and commitment to expanding the recorder’s repertoire, regularly collaborating with musicians across all genres around the world. Matthew Brown is a sought-after harpsichordist, continuo player, and artistic director, regularly playing with major ensembles around the UK, and founder of Queenes Chappell and the Surrey Bach Festival, where he works as artistic director.

Fora thrives on musical risk-taking, bringing energy, precision, and a fearless spirit to their performances. Their artistry captivates audiences, breathing new life into early music while forging exciting new directions for their instruments.

Baroquestock homemade focaccia , biscuits and drinks available before the concert and during the short interval!