Lauda Musicam of Atlanta — Renaissance Band
Lauda Musicam of Atlanta is one of the largest early music ensembles in the country. We model ourselves after the collegium musicum concept that thrived during the 17th and 18th centuries. These organizations were community-centered music societies that provided a study and performance outlet for professional and amateur musicians.
Lauda Musicam rehearses weekly August through early November, then in January through early May. Typically, there are full ensemble concerts at the end of the fall semester (early November) and the end of the spring semester (early May). In addition, the small ensembles within Lauda perform at the Chamber Concert in February.
The Renaissance Band is the ensemble central to Lauda Musicam’s rehearsals and performances. This ensemble is made up of instruments that were in common use during the time the music was written.
Other Lauda Musicam ensembles
In addition to the Renaissance Band, Lauda’s main ensemble, there are smaller, like-instrument chamber ensembles that meet regularly outside of Lauda’s regular rehearsal schedule. Participation in each of these ensembles is by audition only.
Flute Ensemble
Capped Reed Ensemble
Viola da Gamba Ensemble
Brass Ensemble/Loud Band
Baroque Orchestra
Rehearsals
Our in-person ensemble rehearses Monday evening, 7:00–9:00 pm. Members are expected to attend all rehearsals in order to perform with the ensemble.
Lauda also offers an online rehearsal option as a separate opportunity. This online group meets each Tuesday evening 7:00–8:30 pm, and rehearse the same music as our Monday night in-person ensemble. Many of the online participants elect to perform in the concerts and are invited to do so as long as the participant’s preparation is aligned with Lauda’s standards, though no one is required to play in the concerts. All members who perform will attend an in-person dress rehearsal the day before each concert.
Members can choose to participate in the in-person ensemble (encouraged, when possible), as part of the online rehearsals, or both.
Standard membership
Lauda Musicam offers both an in-person option (Monday evenings) and an online option (Tuesday evenings). Many members sign up for both the in-person and online rehearsals to use as guided practice time. Membership is $100 per semester (Fall is August through November; Spring is January through May). There are discounts for signing up for multiple semesters or for both the in-person and online options. Click here to sign up for Lauda Musicam of Atlanta.
Standard membership fees:
Fall or spring in-person: $100 each semester
Fall or spring online: $100 each semester
Fall or spring both in-person and online: $150 each semester
Fall AND spring both in-person and online: $300
Limited fee waivers are available due to financial or other circumstances. Approval by the Board of Directors is required for a waiver. Click here to contact the Music Director to request a waiver.
Student membership
Students currently enrolled in a high school or college are eligible to join Lauda Musicam. Student rates are discounted from the standard rates. Student members receive the same benefits of membership as standard members.
Student* membership fees:
Fall or spring in-person: $50 each semester
Fall or spring online: $50 each semester
Fall or spring both in-person and online: $100 each semester
Fall AND spring both in-person and online: $200
*proof of current high school or college enrollment is required
What instruments are used?
The most common instruments found in our Renaissance band are recorder, viola da gamba, sackbut (Renaissance trombone), flute (keyless), dulcian (Renaissance bassoon), crumhorn, and and cornetto. However, some instruments are not appropriate for all styles of music. Many Lauda members play multiple instruments to increase their versatility.
What if I don’t have an instrument?
Most musicians own their primary instrument. Lauda members in good standing have access to instruments in our collection and can use them for practice, rehearsals, and concerts. Lauda’s inventory includes a limited number of viols, recorders, capped reeds, brass, and percussion instruments.
What if I’ve never played one of these instruments?
Many of Lauda’s members came to these early instruments long after they played another instrument. The “modern” orchestral instruments have much in common with the woodwind, brass, percussion, and string instruments from the Renaissance period. Musicians already have a headstart just by knowing how to read music. Fingerings, embouchures, and other concepts transfer quite easily from one instrument to another. In most cases, moderate proficiency on any instrument is a benefit.
What type of music does the ensemble play?
The Renaissance period in music was roughly 1400–1600 CE. Musical selections can include vocal polyphonic compositions (performed on instruments), instrumental canzonas, music for dancing, and so much more. Occasionally, we perform music from the Medieval and Baroque periods.
What do I need for rehearsals?
Of course, everyone needs the instruments they are playing in the ensemble. In addition, each musician should bring their own music stand. Music should be in a binder or uploaded to an electronic device intended for reading music. A pencil is also needed in order to mark the music during rehearsal.
How do I audition?
If you are currently a member of Lauda Musicam, no audition is necessary. New members should arrange an interview with the Music Director. The audition will evaluate your current musical ability on the instrument you routinely play and your willingness to play instruments we use in the ensemble, if you don’t currently own an early music instrument. Some instruments are available for use, but members are expected to provide their own instruments when possible. Click here to contact the director for an audition.