Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin Essentials

Formed in East Berlin in 1982 before the Wall collapsed, Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin—a Baroque orchestra built around period instruments—established its global reputation soon after German unification. Four rotating concertmasters lead the ensemble, along with a variety of guest conductors. The group's elastic aesthetic was initially tuned to its German repertoire but has since expanded to embrace French and Italian music. Rather than espousing a single musical vision, the ensemble has instead become known for delightful surprises, injecting unexpected energy here or a startlingly lush pastoralism there.