Anne Azema and Shira Kammen, Superstars of Medieval Music

Medieval France is about as well known today as the dark side of the moon. For us to discover its cultural gems, nothing short of wizardry is called for - the means to waft us over the barriers of language and the historical chasm of 800 years. Anne Azema, the French-born artistic director of the Boston Camerata, has that gift in spades: an angelic voice, a lively imagination, scholarly abilities, and just plain charisma. She is "a radiant presence" (The Boston Globe). With over 25 CDs to her credit, she is at the height of her "formidable powers" (Toronto National Post). The concert explores "woman's spirit," her passions, joys, sorrows, and humor, through medieval French songs, from aristocratic graces, through the flow of daily life, to the street scene. Joining Ms. Azema on the harp and vielle will be Shira Kammen, her "soul mate," who also dazzles the critics: "Kammen's exuberant, inexhaustible, and sensitive accompaniment was like a live electrical charge . . ." (The Boston Globe). Anne Azema will also play the harp and hurdy gurdy- a string instrument with a keyboard, played with a crank! Twelfth-century technological improvements downsized it, so that wandering musicians could carry it about and play tunes and drones by themselves, like a one-man band. Among the composers on the program, one fascinating figure stands out: Thibaud de Champagne. He was the first French King of Navarre, a prolific poet, musician, and leader of the Barons' Crusade in 1239. He is sometimes credited with bringing the chardonnay grape (needed for champagne) back home to France. Don't miss the abundant pleasures of this concert! Visit the terra incognita of the thirteenth century, learn about ferocious unicorns (so rare in our day) and the power of pure and virtuous maidens to lure and subdue them. Enjoy a convivial reception afterwards, and take a peek at a real hurdy gurdy! Tickets at the door, cash or check ($35, $30 seniors, $10 students). Reception follows. Info.: www.csem.org

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Artists: Anne Azema, Shira Kammen Category: Live Music, Classical