Continuo Foundation has named the recipients of its first round of grants to UK period-instrument ensembles. The charity – established in October 2020 to support projects which create work for freelancers whose careers are at risk due to Covid-19 – will award £150,000 to 23 projects taking place from April to September, leading to work for more than 300 musicians across a variety of ensembles, including Dunedin Consort and La Nuova Musica.

Back in January, Continuo – whose patrons include Emma Kirkby and Rachel Podger – invited ensembles to apply for a share of the £100,000 being offered in the first swathe of grants. Following compelling requests from 65 ensembles totalling £475,000, the offering was increased by £50,000. Founder Tina Vadaneaux, a former City director and classical music lover, said: ‘The number of very worthwhile projects exceeded our available resources by a long way. Subject to raising sufficient funds, we will launch a second grant round in the summer for projects from autumn 2021.’

Of the 23 projects receiving financial aid, six have been confirmed as being recording-based: over the next few months, The English Concert will record Handel’s Tamerlano at Sage Gateshead; La Serenissima will record concertos and orchestral suites by Brescianello, Sammartini and Vivaldi; and The Brook Street Band will record music by John Frederick Lampe. Recordings will also be made by Ensemble Marsyas, Illyria Consort and Ensemble Augelletti. Live music-making will be supported, too, particularly concert tours to unique venues along with premieres of new music.

Hannah French, one of Continuo’s trustees, added: ‘The breadth and diversity of work being planned for the months ahead is truly inspiring. We’re thrilled to be able to support such a variety of projects showcasing the talent of freelance period-instrumentalists and highlighting the vital role they play in British cultural life.’

For more information, visit Continuo's website