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.
Approaching a half century as the Bay Area’s portal for early music, The San Francisco Early Music Society’s 49th concert season, “Fertile Gardens,” showcases vibrant styles and traditions spanning nearly a millennium, celebrating the beauty and variety of historical musical styles in blossom and in full bloom. From the earliest written Medieval polyphonic music to the refined splendor of the high Renaissance—
and as well as virtuosic Baroque masterworks, the Classical period in Vienna, and living traditions with ancient roots beyond Europe—curious listeners and early music aficionados alike can experience the dazzling world of early music in ”Fertile Gardens.”
Concerto Köln | March 14 & 15
World-renowned ensemble Concerto Köln will bring its characteristic exuberance to a tapestry of Baroque brilliance, with works by Telemann, J.S. Bach, Giuseppe Sammartini, Handel, Mrs Philarmonica (the pen name of an anonymous female composer), plus a very special rendition of Vivaldi’s double concerto for two instruments, featuring violinist extraordinaire Shunske Sato and eminent recorder player Max Volbers. Now celebrating its 40th anniversary season, Concerto Köln remains on the forefront of early music performance. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to enjoy the group’s highly individual sound.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2:30 PM
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
1100 O’Farrell Street, San Francisco
SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2:30 PM
First Church Berkeley UCC (First Congregational)
2345 Channing Way
SFEMS Summer Workshops
SFEMS Summer Workshops return to downtown Berkeley in Summer 2026, offering immersive, week-long opportunities to explore early music with internationally renowned faculty. All levels are welcome.
SCHEDULE:
Produced by the San Francisco Early Music Society, BFX is one of the world’s leading early music gatherings. BFX is live, with ticket packages on sale now! Individual Pay-It-Forward tickets go on sale February 18.
