Step back in time with Marion Consort at Byron Colby Barn

Submitted by Liberty Prairie Foundation

The celestial voices of The Marion Consort will rise at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, at the Byron Colby Barn in Grayslake, as part of the 14th annual Early Music Series.

The Early Music Series at the Byron Colby Barn features highly acclaimed musicians performing music from the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Admission is $20 for adults and is available at the door only via cash or check (no credit cards). To inspire early appreciation for the arts, children under 16 are admitted free.

Before the Renaissance, composers of the Middle Ages wrote haunting polyphony that is rarely performed today. Join The Marion Consort as they explore the beginnings of vocal polyphony from organum of the ninth century to polyphony of the late 15th century.

As the premier Chicago choral ensemble for a cappella early music, The Marion Consort explores the works of both familiar and lesser known composers. This concert will feature both sacred and secular polyphony ranging from Notre Dame conductus and Montpellier motets to Machaut's Kyrie and Dufay's rondeaus.

The Marion Consort, under the artistic direction of Amy Bearden, is a Chicago choral ensemble specializing in choral music of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. They have performed at the Chicago Cultural Center as part of the Classical Music Mondays series, on Milwaukee Public Radio's "Lake Effect" with Bonnie North, and the "Ars Antigua Presents" podcast with Peter Van de Graff. The Marion Consort can divide into duos, trios, octets, etc. for a well-rounded and blended performance.

The Byron Colby Barn is located at 1561 Jones Point Road in Grayslake, inside the Prairie Crossing conservation community. From I-94 north, exit Route 120 west, turn south at Route 45, then right at Jones Point Road. Ample free parking is located in the parking lot adjacent to the Barn. Audience members are welcome to bring a bottle of wine to share with friends during performances.

Incredible music and architectural beauty combine to create a unique concert experience at the Byron Colby Barn. For more information about the Early Music Series visit www.libertyprairie.org/earlymusic.

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