The intrepid people at Toronto’s Aradia Ensemble have just announced a unique two-year project to develop new works for baroque ensemble – Baroque Idol. Aradia is looking for composers to submit 5 minute works for 4 baroque strings (2 violins, viola, cello), harpsichord/organ, baroque oboe/recorder, and baroque bassoon.

Ten works will be chosen from the submissions for performance by Aradia in February 2011. Five composers will then be selected, and each will be commissioned to write a 10 minute work for Aradia in the 2011-12 season. The five works will be featured on a commercial CD.

Composers are invited to consult with Aradia’s period performance specialists prior to the submission deadline of December 15.

For more details, please contact Aradia administrator Wendy Limbertie by email at cfac.toronto@sympatico.ca.