Masters of the Baroque, at His Majesty’s theatre, is a beautiful evening out.
(image credit: Daniel James Grant)
Masters of the Baroque at His Majesty’s Theatre presents a carefully curated selection of masterpieces from the 18th century, a period defined by extraordinary musical innovation and craftsmanship.
Shaped by the early music revival movement, with its emphasis on historically informed performance, the program felt authentic and under the direction of harpsichordist Chad Kelly. His dedication to this tradition is evident throughout, making the performance a thoughtful and beautifully realised tribute to Baroque music and its enduring legacy.
This show is also a reminder of just how transporting live orchestral music can be.
Performed by the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, the evening invites you to switch off from the outside world.
There’s a depth to live performance. I find it resonates on a different level in a way that’s much richer than listening to a recording. You can sit back and just feel the music, allowing your mind to drift and create its own narrative.
Now, let’s talk about the performance. Baroque music is defined by mastery, innovation, and intricate ornamentation, I describe it as filigree for the ears.
Under Kelly’s direction, the program was both engaging and enlightening. As noted in his introduction, this music was written “to move, engage and delight,” and that intention was felt throughout.
The orchestra met the genre’s demands with precision and energy, bringing Baroque’s rapid flourishes, rich bass lines and dynamic contrasts vividly to life. In Kelly’s hands, the harpsichord’s delicate sound added a refined elegance to
the performance.
Joined by soprano Prudence Sanders, the program gained an extra layer of brilliance. Her voice moved effortlessly through the genre’s intricate vocal lines, complementing the orchestra’s vitality.
Together, Kelly and Sanders delivered a performance that was both technically assured and deeply expressive. This made for an evening of sophistication and emotional depth.