17th Century Music Performance at the Byron Colby Barn
Such Sweete Melodie performs music of the 17th century at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 9 at the Byron Colby Barn in Grayslake. Admission is $18 for adults and is available at the door only (cash or check only). To inspire early appreciation for the arts, children younger than 16 are admitted free.
The Byron Colby Barn is located at 1561 Jones Point Road in Grayslake, inside the Prairie Crossing conservation community. From I-94, exit Route 120 west, turn south at Route 45, then right at Jones Point Road. Ample free parking is located adjacent to the Barn.
A hundred years before Vivaldi and Telemann, European composers were creating the music that ushered in the Baroque and Classical periods. Monteverdi made vocalists soar, Tarquinio Merula rebalanced musical minimalism and Schmelzer's violin virtuosity resulted in the Stylus Phantasticus.
Such Sweete Melodie explores this intoxicating 17th century music with Lindsey Adams, one of the Midwest's most sought-after vocalists; Alice Culin-Ellison, Baroque violinist; and a 17th continuo band including theorbo, lute, violone, Baroque guitar, lirone, and an original 1590 Italian virginal.
This performance is part of the 12th annual Early Music Series, featuring highly acclaimed musicians performing music from the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Additional upcoming performances in the Early Music Series include Secret of the Muses on Mar. 2 and Rook on Mar. 23.
Joel Spears is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Early Music Series, and an active lutenist and guitarist based in the Chicago area. He has performed as a soloist and with ensembles including Lyric Opera of Chicago, Chicago Opera Theater, Bella Voce, and Music of the Baroque. Joel is currently Lute Instructor at the Music Institute of Chicago.
Incredible music and architectural beauty combine to create a unique concert experience at the Byron Colby Barn. Audience members are welcome to bring a bottle of wine to share with friends during performances. Enjoy the gift of music in the intimate setting of a restored dairy barn. Information about upcoming performances is at www.prairiecrossing.com/bcbarn.