Glories of Baroque opera: most-loved arias and dances by Vivaldi, Handel, Purcell and Rameau

Internationally acclaimed counter-tenor Tobias Merz will join Arioso Chamber Ensemble for the first time to present a program of quintessential Baroque arias and dance music.

Audiences will be transported from the heart-rending “Lascia ch’io pianga” (Let me weep) from Handel’s opera Rinaldo to the dramatic Frost aria from King Arthur by Purcell, in a concert designed to showcase some of the most expressive music of the Baroque era.

The program will also feature dance music from Purcell’s “The Fairy Queen” and Rameau’s “Danse des sauvages”, adding rhythmic energy and contrast to the evening.

Arioso Chamber Ensemble brings together the talents and experience of leading specialists in Baroque performance, with a focus on high-quality, historically informed and engaging concerts.

Tobias brings a wealth of experience to the group, having previously sung with Opera Australia, English National Opera, Opera North (UK) and Scottish Opera.

Since 2014, Arioso Chamber Ensemble has performed regularly at festivals and concerts across South-East Queensland and beyond, developing a reputation for bringing Baroque music to wider audiences with warmth, skill and authenticity.

The ensemble features Tobias Merz (counter-tenor), Margaret Caley (baroque violin), Jacqueline Webber (baroque violin), Janet Brewer (harpsichord) and Shannon Scheltema (viola da gamba).

Together, the artists share a passion for presenting the beauty, drama and vitality of Baroque music in performances that are both informed by history and accessible to modern audiences.

The concert will be held at 3pm on Sunday, June 21, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 115 Eumundi Rd, Noosaville. Tickets are $40 full, $35 concession and $15 for school students, and are available online at www.trybooking.com/DLTBQ or at the door, cash only. Visit www.ariosochamberensemble.com.

Tobias Merz.