Submitted

It’s no secret that listening to music brings joy and certainly can uplift a dull spirit. The dopamine release from enjoying music brings on the “feel good” emotions and what better way to start off 2019?

The local ensemble known as “Entwyned Early Music” consists of three musicians who specialize in music from as long ago as the 13th century and up to about 1750. The tunes are played on reproduction historical instruments, including baroque and renaissance flutes, harp, lutes, viola da gamba, and cello.

Their latest release, “Twas in the Moon of Wintertime,” features winter and holiday music from across the centuries – some familiar, and some sure to become new favorites.

“This unique musical offering is part of the First Church Arts in the Center series,” commented musician, guest vocalist for Entwyned Early Music, and one of the event organizers Greg Wilfrid. “We enjoy being able to bring different musical experiences to West Hartford, and Entwyned Early Music is certainly one of our most unusual offerings. They offer a rare opportunity to hear the timeless quality of the old instruments, in a contemporary setting.”

Concert attendees are welcome to enjoy a potluck dinner starting at 6 p.m. (Please bring an appetizer, a salad, or a dessert to share. Sandwiches will be provided). Or come for the music portion only. The concert will begin at 6:45 p.m. and there is a $15 suggested donation that may be paid at the door by cash or check.  Park for free behind First Church at 12 South Main St., West Hartford. Enter at the rear door, marked by a round/rotunda and go to the auditorium.

Listening to some exquisite and unique live music in a comfortable environment, with some comfort food and new friends might be the highlight of your year so far! You may read more about Entwyned Early Music on their website, and read the musician biographies here:

Dee Hansen, musician with Entwyned Early Music. Courtesy photo

DEE HANSEN
Baroque & Renaissance Flute
Dee Hansen is Professor of Music Education at The Hartt School, the University of Hartford. Dee is a nationally active clinician and writer specializing in curriculum and assessment development, music and literacy connections, and practical applications of learning theory. Dr. Hansen holds a master’s degree in music history and Doctorate of Musical Arts degree. She is a member of Amherst Early Music and Early Music America.

26-string lever harp by DustyStrings

Neal Humphreys, musician with Entwyned Early Music. Courtesy photo

NEAL HUMPHREYS
Viola da gamba, Cello
Neal Humphreys graduated from The Hartt School, University of Hartford with his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Cello Performance, with an emphasis in chamber music. His vast ensemble experience includes work with composers Tan Dun and Frank Ticheli, a tour of mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. He has performed under Peter Nero with members of the San Francisco Symphony, Ballet, and Opera orchestras. A cross-genre cellist-explorer, Neal enjoys delighting audiences with an eclectic mix of music from the early Baroque to jazz, punk rock, and hip hop. He can be heard on Kenny Garrett’s Grammy nominated jazz album “Beyond the Wall.”

Bass viola da gamba by John Pringle

Bass viola da gamba by John Pringle

Eric Hansen, musician with Entwyned Early Music. Courtesy photo

ERIC HANSEN
Lutes
Eric Hansen performed as a professional bassist and lutenist in concerts and on recordings with nationally known musicians. Over the years Eric played the lute on two gold albums and two multi-platinum albums. He holds a master’s degree in music history and did post graduate work in musicology at the University of Chicago with the late Howard Mayer Brown. In addition to his work with Entwyned Early Music, he continues to perform on the lute as a member of the Lute Society of America, Amherst Early Music, and Early Music America.

Liuto attiorbato by Jason Petty