Rediscovering the Grandeur of "Water Music": A Floating Baroque Spectacle in Chicago

In a remarkable nod to the past, the renowned Music of the Baroque ensemble is set to recreate a historic moment from 1717 when composer George Frideric Handel's "Water Music" captivated audiences on the River Thames. This September, the orchestra and chorus will embark on a journey along the Chicago River, enchanting onlookers with the timeless melodies and rhythms of this Baroque masterpiece.

Bringing the Sounds of the 18th Century to Chicago's Waterways

Fulfilling the wish of England's King George I, the legendary George Frideric Handel composed a special work for a grand outing on the River Thames in 1717. Aboard a barge, a 50-strong ensemble of musicians followed the royal party, while hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of spectators gathered along the banks and on other boats to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle. Now, over 300 years later, the Music of the Baroque ensemble is poised to recreate this historic event, bringing the grandeur of "Water Music" to the vibrant city of Chicago.

A Floating Concert on the Chicago River

On September 18th, the Music of the Baroque Orchestra and Chorus, along with a talented contingent of 35 young singers from the organization's "Strong Voices" outreach program, will embark on a captivating boat excursion along the Chicago River. From Ogden Slip in Streeterville to the Merchandise Mart and back, the ensemble will perform excerpts from Handel's "Water Music," allowing workers, tourists, residents, and diners along the Riverwalk to enjoy the music free of charge.

Embracing the City's Assets and Connecting with the Community

"Chicago is a special city," remarked Declan McGovern, the executive director of Music of the Baroque, "and we're always eager to find ways to use the infrastructure of the city to celebrate our music and allow as many people as possible to enjoy what we do for free." This innovative approach not only takes advantage of one of the city's most well-known assets but also aims to promote the organization and bring its music to the forefront of the community.

Adapting to the Modern Era

While the Music of the Baroque ensemble will be performing much of the same music that captivated audiences in 1717, the team has made one concession to modernity – the use of speakers on the front and back of the boat to ensure that the singers and players can be heard clearly by the audience. This subtle touch of technology will enable the timeless melodies to reach the ears of the modern-day spectators, further enhancing the immersive experience.

A Diverse Lineup of Classical Music Events in Chicago

The "Water Music" performance is just one of the many enthralling classical music events taking place in the Chicago area this fall. From Haydn's grand oratorio "The Creation" to Beethoven's iconic opera "Fidelio" and the exploration of "Iberia and the Americas" by the acclaimed Bella Voce ensemble, the city is poised to offer a diverse and engaging lineup of classical music experiences.Additionally, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra will welcome the esteemed conductor Riccardo Muti for a series of concerts, including the world premiere of Osvaldo Golijov's "Megalopolis Suite." The Guarneri Hall will also host the thought-provoking "Sounds of the Cold War" program, highlighting the music of European composers who navigated the complex political landscape during that era.

Embracing Innovation and Pushing the Boundaries of Classical Music

The classical music landscape in Chicago is not just about preserving the timeless works of the past. Organizations like Music of the Baroque and the Chicago Opera Theater are actively exploring new ways to engage audiences and push the boundaries of the art form. From the innovative "Robeson" production featuring bass-baritone Davóne Tines to the eclectic "Asian Sound Revolution" performance, the city's classical music scene is embracing diversity, creativity, and a forward-thinking approach.As the Music of the Baroque ensemble embarks on its enchanting "Water Music" journey along the Chicago River, it not only celebrates the grandeur of the past but also serves as a testament to the city's vibrant and evolving classical music scene. This floating Baroque spectacle promises to captivate and inspire audiences, reminding them of the timeless power of music to transcend time and space.