Known as a historical orchestra of outstanding quality that combines stylistic knowledge, the highest technical skills, and artistic enthusiasm,  Il Pomo d'Oro visited SFCM for a week-long artist-in-residence in April. 

Founded in 2012 by Gesine Lübben and Giulio d’Alessio, il Pomo d’Oro has established itself in the field of historically informed performance. Il Pomo d'Oro are Askonas Holt and PENTATONE recording artists, each part of SFCM's growing alliance of leading arts organizations. 

Members of Il Pomo D'Oro.

The ensemble is characterized by an authentic, dynamic interpretation of operas and instrumental works from the Baroque and Classical period. Their name is pulled from an opera by Antonio Cesti, composed for a royal wedding in Vienna in 1666. With 73,000 fireworks, 300 horses, 50 singers and 24 different stage sets and stunning special effects like collapsing towers, flying gods and sinking ships, Il Pomo d’Oro was a 10-hour production unlike any other of its time. 

Composed as an orchestra of some of the best musicians in the world, SFCM students got first-hand experience with the artists through more than a dozen private coachings across various instrument programs, a voice class, seminar, and performance April 11. The orchestra also spent time working with SFCM's Pre-College students. 

Learn more about SFCM's growing alliance with Askonas Holt, Opus 3, and PENTATONE Records.