Saratoga Springs, NY - Musicians of Ma'alwyck and Excelsior Vocal Ensemble are pleased to announce an exciting collaboration with to present Dido and Aeneas by Henry Purcell, a Baroque opera rarely performed in the Capital Region. The opera will be presented in conjunction with John Blow's Ode on the Death of Mr. Henry Purcell.

Dido and Aeneas, based on The Aeneid, is one the earliest English operas. This semi-staged performance directed by Sharon Greene will feature acclaimed soloists as well as premiere dance interludes. John Blow's Ode, scored for chamber orchestra and two tenors, was written as a tribute to Blow's student after his death.

Excelsior Vocal Ensemble is a new vocal chamber ensemble in the Capital Region under the direction of esteemed emerging conductor Andrew Burger, Capital Region native. The ensemble's mission is to commemorate and bring forth historic, majestic, and rarely performed great works in high-caliber performances. Now celebrating its 26th year, Musicians of Ma'alwyck founded by Ann-Marie Barker Schwartz is a regional chamber group focused on presenting period music.

There will be two performances: February 20 at 7pm at Bethesda Episcopal Church in Saratoga Springs and February 22 at 3pm at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Soloists include Claire McCahan as Dido, AddieRose Brown as Belinda, Opera Saratoga Michel Segura as Aeneas, and Sharon Greene as the Sorceress.