Ensemble Augelletti Named 2023 New Generation Baroque Ensemble

Announced by the BBC Radio 3, Royal College of Music, and the National Centre for Early Music, the UK-based quintet will hold the role from 2023-25

The New Generation Baroque Ensemble (NGBE) scheme was created in 2021 by BBC Radio 3, the Royal College of Music (RCM), and the National Centre for Early Music (NCEM) to showcase and develop outstanding emerging UK-based ensembles in Baroque music. 

The scheme welcomes instrumental groups of three to six performers, who play Baroque repertoire using historically informed playing techniques, instruments, and stylistic conventions. 

For two years as of October 2023, the five-piece Ensemble Augelletti will be contracted as the second New Generation Baroque Ensemble.

The ensemble will build on its early success through a development program of residencies at the RCM and NCEM, plus a regular presence on BBC Radio 3.

Founded in 2019, Ensemble Augelletti comprises violinist Ellen Bundy, cellist Carina Drury, lutist Toby Carr, recorder player Olwen Foulkes, and keyboardist Benedict Williams. The group has performed at many festivals, including the London, Brighton, and York Early Music Festivals.

They were finalists of the 2022 York International Young Artists Competition and winners of Italy’s 2019 Festival Barocco Alessandro Stradella Young Artist Competition. In February 2022, the group released its debut CD of trio sonatas, “The Library of a Prussian Princess,” on Barn Cottage Records.

Over the two-year period, the group will access management and career expertise, performance, and recording opportunities available through each of the partner organizations. 

Throughout the program, they will be based in the UK for studio recordings, coaching sessions, open rehearsals, and performances in London, York, and Beverley.

“We are delighted to become the next New Generation Baroque Ensemble and very excited to have this wonderful opportunity to work in collaboration with RCM, NCEM and BBC Radio 3,” said Ensemble Augelletti. “The live concerts, broadcasts, and other experiences offered by the scheme will be invaluable in helping Ensemble Augelletti form the next chapter of our journey, and we are so thankful to the NGBE team for their support!”

“It is a privilege for Radio 3 to partner with the Royal College of Music and the National Centre for Early Music in forming this exciting relationship with Ensemble Augelletti,” added BBC Radio 3 controller, Sam Jackson. 

“We are delighted to welcome the group to Radio 3’s New Generation family of young talent, following in the footsteps of (inaugural NGBE) Ensemble Molière,” Jackson continued. “I look forward to witnessing their development over the next two years, and to the performances they will create for us all to enjoy.”