Orchestra Of The 18th Century

Dutch Period Instrument Ensemble

The Orchestra of the 18th Century is a renowned period-instrument ensemble that specializes in performing music from the 17th and 18th centuries. Founded in 1981 by Frans Brüggen, a virtuoso Dutch recorder player and conductor, the orchestra has been dedicated to historically informed performance practices. The ensemble is composed of about 50 members from over 20 different countries, each an expert in the field of early music and playing on period instruments or replicas thereof. The Orchestra of the 18th Century has toured extensively, presenting works by composers such as Bach, Handel, Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven in a manner that aims to closely replicate the sound-worlds these composers would have known. Their discography includes numerous recordings that have been critically acclaimed for their authenticity and musicality. Frans Brüggen's leadership until his death in 2014 was instrumental in establishing the orchestra's reputation as one of the leading ensembles for period performance. The orchestra continues to perform under various guest conductors who share its vision and commitment to historical performance practice.