In the charming coastal town of Port Townsend, music enthusiasts are in for a treat as the Salish Sea Early Music Festival presents an exceptional Baroque concert. This event, titled "The Canzona 2025," will transport audiences back to the early 17th century, exploring the origins and development of the canzona—a musical form that emerged from 16th-century French and Flemish chansons. Featuring works by renowned composers such as Florentino Maschera, Giovanni Gabrieli, and Girolamo Frescobaldi, this performance promises to be both enlightening and captivating. The concert will take place on Sunday afternoon at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, with admission through a suggested donation. Audiences can look forward to an immersive experience led by distinguished musicians, including Tina Chancey, a specialist in Renaissance music.

Exploring the Roots of Baroque Music in a Historic Setting

In the heart of Port Townsend, nestled along the picturesque shores of the Salish Sea, lies St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. On a serene Sunday afternoon, this historic venue will come alive with the sounds of the past. At 2 p.m., the church will host "The Canzona 2025," a concert that delves into the rich history of the canzona, a musical form that flourished during the Baroque era. The program will showcase compositions by influential figures like Giovanni Gabrieli and Girolamo Frescobaldi, alongside earlier chansons that inspired this genre. Among the highlights is an instrumental rendition of Clement Jannequin’s “Song of the Birds,” a piece dating back to 1577.

The concert will feature an ensemble of talented musicians, including Tina Chancey, a renowned specialist in Renaissance music, who will perform on the tenor viol. Joining her are Vicki Boeckman on Renaissance recorders, Jeffrey Cohan on transverse flutes, and Anna Marsh on the dulcian—an early ancestor of the modern bassoon. Together, they will recreate the ambiance of a bygone era, offering listeners a glimpse into the world of Baroque music.

Beyond this event, the festival has planned a series of future performances that span various periods of classical music, from chaconnes and trio sonatas to works by Beethoven and Johann Sebastian Bach. Each concert promises to deepen the audience’s appreciation for the evolution of Western music.

From a journalist's perspective, this concert not only celebrates the beauty of Baroque music but also serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of historical art forms. It invites us to reflect on how the music of the past continues to inspire and enrich our lives today. By bringing together ancient instruments and timeless compositions, the performers create a bridge between centuries, allowing modern audiences to connect with the musical traditions of yesteryear. Such events underscore the importance of preserving and appreciating cultural heritage, ensuring that the legacy of great composers lives on for future generations.