Machaut: Messe de Nostre Dame

French composer and poet Guillaume de Machaut was one of the leading minds of the Middle Ages. His Messe de Nostre Dame is one of the first multi-movement, large-scale notated compositions to exist in the Western canon and has been called the “genesis of modern music” (Los Angeles Times). This program features Machaut’s magnum opus as well as the secular songs of minstrels and bards from the Middle Ages to create an evening of artistry, revelry, and dance. The Festival continues its decades-long association with Chanticleer, one of SFEMS’ original fiscal affiliates! We are also excited to welcome back Alkemie, which wowed audiences during their 2022–23 SFEMS concert debut.