

Who are we? The San Francisco Early Music Society is the Bay Area’s portal for early music, promoting engagement with historically informed performance spanning centuries and cultures, and creating a community reflective of our region’s diversity.

Experience a pastiche of Baroque music, dance, pantomime, and puppetry with the esteemed Nash Baroque Ensemble and Dance Through Time in Emperor of the Moon. This celebrated collaboration transports audiences to ca. 1705 London, showcasing the music of renowned composers like Henry Purcell, John Blow, and John Eccles, performed by the acclaimed soprano Bethany Hill and a skilled period instrumental ensemble. Accompanied by original 18th-century dance choreographies, this enchanting journey explores the redemptive powers of love amidst a world where madness and reason collide. Join us for an unforgettable adventure filled with the rich sounds of the Baroque era.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6, 7:30 PM
Carrington Hall
1201 Brewster Ave, Redwood City
SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 4:00 & 7:30 PM
Live Oak Theater
1301 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
SUNDAY, JUNE 8, 2:30 PM
Gunn Theatre at The Legion of Honor
100 34th Ave, San Francisco
Individual Tickets & Summer Season Packages NOW Available!
We suggest a ticket price between $35 and $45 per ticket. Anything is appreciated, and if you can pay more, please do!
Consider buying a subscription package to ensure the success of our
pay-what-you-can model!

Join us for an immersive concert at Grace Cathedral, honoring the 400-year legacy of William Byrd, presented by award-winning British vocal ensemble The Gesualdo Six and the Bay Area’s own Wildcat Viols, in collaboration with Concert Theatre Works. Directed by Bill Barclay, Secret Byrd brings to life the profound spiritual intensity of Byrd’s music in a stunning candlelit setting.
THURSDAY & FRIDAY, JULY 17 & 18, 6:30 & 9:30 PM
Grace Cathedral
1100 California St, San Francisco
Immerse yourself in Elizabethan Intrigue!
Summer Season Packages & Individual Tickets NOW Available
Consider buying a subscription package to ensure the success of our pay-what-you-can model!

Registration for our Summer Workshops at SFEMS is now open!
Join us for four weeks of immersive learning in the heart of downtown Berkeley, featuring internationally-renowned faculty and opportunities for all skill levels. Explore the rich world of historical music, enjoy unique annual themes, and connect with fellow musicians. Don’t miss your chance to enhance your skills and make lasting friendships—register today!
Baroque Workshop: June 16–22
Medieval/Renaissance Workshop: July 13–19
Recorder Workshop: July 20–26
Classical Workshop: July 27–August 2
Support SFEMS!
Become a member of your favorite portal to early music in the Bay Area and beyond!
Your tax-deductible donation is a vote for the future of early music.