Nestled within Portland’s thriving arts scene is The Portland Baroque Orchestra (PBO), an undiscovered gem waiting to enchant music lovers.

As the sound of Baroque-era violas and cellos warming up fills the air, anticipation builds for masterpieces crafted over 300 years ago. Renowned for its vibrant, historically inspired performances, PBO masterfully brings to life the works of Baroque legends such as Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi.

With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, the orchestra employs period instruments and historically inspired interpretations, delivering a rich and immersive experience. Each performance is a journey through time, celebrating the intricate beauty and timeless brilliance of music composed before 1840.

This music originally was composed and played for private audiences of perhaps 100 guests and the PBO experience is also smaller and more intimate than a full orchestra. This gives the musicians the freedom to create a “very Portland” experience, where players thrive on spontaneity, playfulness, and artistry and where every concert is a little bit different.

Portland Baroque Orchestra’s “Season of Seasons” at a glance

Celebrating the 300th anniversary of Vivaldi’s masterpiece, The Four Seasons, PBO’s 41st season is a musical odyssey dedicated to Mother Nature. The series follows the unfolding of the seasons, beginning with the opening concert on October 12, “Handel and Vivaldi: Autumn Light.” This Italian-inspired concert masterfully marries music and nature with Vivaldi’s “Autumn” and “Winter,” followed by soprano Maya Kherani in Handel’s commanding “Silete venti.”

“French Finesse” on October 18 presents an evening of French-inspired chamber music for gamba, violin, flute, and harpsichord. On November 16 and 17, “The Royal Trumpeter” curated by Principal Trumpet Kris Kwapis lets the trumpet shine in works composed for the royal courts in 17th-century London.

December 6, 7, and 8,  PBO celebrates the most performed work in all of musical history, Handel’s Messiah. Uniquely,  PBO plays this masterpiece as a complete oratorio on period instruments. February 15 and 16, guest director and oboist Debra Nagy leads a romantic program featuring Bach, Telemann, and Vivaldi. “The Hunting Horn” on March 8 features horn, oboe, harpsichord, and violin on a spirited ride through the English countryside.

The March 15 concert highlights the first movement from Vivaldi’s “Spring” concerto. This movement in particular is the most instantly recognizable from its inclusion in many films and TV series.

On April 12 and 13, PBO’s final 41st season concert honors the themes of light, love, and rebirth through acclaimed works by Pergolesi, Scarlatti, and Bach, along with Vivaldi’s “Summer,” rounding out the season with a sense of joy and hope.

A new Artistic Director, new downtown venue, and earlier start times

Founded in 1984, PBO is one of the longest-running period orchestras in the United States, and with this season, it is introducing several small but significant changes to make this glorious music more accessible to a wider audience.

In December 2022, PBO welcomed Artistic Director Julian Perkins. A multi-talented musician, composer, and conductor, Julian conducts from the harpsichord and has introduced many lesser-used techniques from the Baroque era, staying true to a vision of musician-driven performances.

Julian also gives the popular pre-concert talks that take place one hour before the start of all PBO concerts, with the exception of December’s Messiah. These are the perfect way to discover more about the musicians, the music, and the instruments that make Baroque music so enduring.

PBO’s new downtown venue, Sanctuary Hall at First Congregational United Church, provides a more central location and increases premium seating. Based on patron feedback, evening start times are now at 7 pm rather than 7:30 pm and additional matinees have been added.

Making world-class Baroque music more accessible

PBO has just introduced lower ticket prices for patrons under 35, with tickets priced at $25. Student Rush tickets, subject to availability, can be purchased on the day of the concert at the venue box office and are $5. Call a day or two ahead to make sure the concert is not sold out. Arts for All $5 tickets for patrons with an Oregon Trail card can be purchased in advance subject to availability.

Portland Baroque Orchestra isn’t just about listening to music; it's about experiencing history, passion, and artistry in an intimate, engaging setting. Whether you’re a long-time aficionado of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, PBO's 41st season promises to deliver unforgettable performances that resonate long after the final note. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary musical journey. For ticket purchases and more information, visit pbo.org and secure your next experience.