HistorySeattle Baroque Orchestra was founded in 1994 by violinist Ingrid Matthews and harpsichordist Byron Schenkman, and quickly established itself as one of the most vibrant of the American early music ensembles. The group has appeared across North America from California to Vermont, been featured extensively on National Public Radio, and garnered rave reviews for its six recordings, while winning loyal fans in Seattle for the excitement and intimacy of their live performances. The Seattle Baroque Orchestra has collaborated with contemporary composers, jazz musicians, Baroque dancers, and many of the most prominent soloists in the field of early music.SpecialtiesThe goal of Seattle Baroque Orchestra is to awaken contemporary audiences to the vitality of 17th- and 18th-century music through historically informed performance of both familiar and unknown works. We hope through live performances, recordings and educational programs to foster an awareness and appreciation of this music, which not only illuminates past eras but provides a unique lens through which to view our own.