Early Music Society of Nova Scotia

The Early Music Society of Nova Scotia (EMSNS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving early music in Nova Scotia. Established in 1978, it focuses on music primarily composed before 1750, encompassing the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Baroque periods. This includes works by renowned composers such as J.S. Bach, Henry Purcell, and Jean-Baptiste Lully.

Objectives

The EMSNS strives to achieve several key objectives:

• Community Engagement: Open lines of communication related to early music activities within the community.
• Musical Development: Nurture early music making at all levels through workshops and performance opportunities.
• Audience Building: Foster audiences that appreciate early music.
• Performance Opportunities: Encourage and host various performances, workshops, and events for both seasoned musicians and beginners.

Events and Activities

The society organizes a variety of events from September to June, typically hosting gatherings once a month. These include:

• Readings: Informal music gatherings where vocalists and instrumentalists practice without prior rehearsals. For example, they often perform pieces like J.S. Bach’s "Wachet Auf" cantata and Vivaldi’s "Gloria."
• Mid-Winter Tune-Up: An event where early music groups share and perform pieces they have been working on in a relaxed setting.
• Workshops: Collaborative sessions with visiting musicians, often associated with Symphony Nova Scotia or Musique Royale.
• Film Nights: Annual screenings of films with an early music theme or connection.

Resource Availability

The society owns a harpsichord and maintains a collection of instruments, including Baroque bows, available for members to borrow. Additionally, through partnerships with institutions like the Fountain School of Performing Arts at Dalhousie University, members can access a wider range of historical instruments for practice and performance.

Governance

The society is managed by a board of dedicated members, each contributing to its operations and events. This board includes roles such as president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, and members-at-large.

Community Impact

The EMSNS plays a vital role in Nova Scotia’s cultural landscape by providing a platform for musical expression and education focused on historical compositions. Through its activities, it enriches the community by fostering a deeper appreciation for early music and promoting its continued relevance today.