Ardesko

Ardesko (previously Camerata Ardesko) is a dynamic, young, professional chamber orchestra based in the Netherlands, unique in its’ approach to programming and diverse range of activities. The name Ardesko is derived from the Latin word meaning ‘to set fire to’, ‘to excite’.

The orchestra was founded in 2007 in Groningen by a group of conservatorium graduates and students keen to establish a vibrant chamber orchestra which challenges the traditional role of a classical orchestra.

Ardesko has at its’ core 30 string players who are now all top young professionals. In principle the orchestra plays without conductor, under the artistic direction of concertmaster Melanie Waite. Depending on the repertoire demands of each programme, the orchestra performs with 13-25 musicians.

Striving to reach as broad an audience as possible Ardesko performs music from all periods from baroque to contemporary and places great importance on innovative projects which break the mould of the traditional classical concert and give the audience new experiences.They are involved with projects that blur style boundaries such as the jazz project Quantum Entanglement, as well as multidisciplinary arts projects such as Wild Country.

Ardesko is committed to performing contemporary works and actively seeks out collaborations with composers from around the world. The orchestra can be found performing everywhere from famous concert halls such as the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, leading arts festivals including the Grachten Festival, prestigious events like the ABN AMRO New Year’s concert, as well as unexpected everyday places such as care homes, train stations and community centres.