An early music vocal ensemble and non-profit performing arts organization based in Arizona.
Tickets: Season 8 (22-23)
Season 8 consists of four concert series, a pub concert and a few other yet-to-be-announced events.
A Modern Renaissance
April 15-16, 2023
Saturday at 7:30pm at Christ Church of the Ascension in Paradise Valley, Arizona
Sunday at 3:00pm at The Church of the Epiphany in Tempe, Arizona
Renewal and rebirth are hallmarks of the Renaissance. The final performance of the season brings this to life with music that was forward thinking and challenging to listeners of the time. Presented on the program is a piece whose missing parts were reconstructed by a modern composer and a first for Helios: a world premier. We will also be joined by additional musicians to recreate and reimagine some of the most beautiful compositions of master composer Claudio Monteverdi.
Previous Events this Season
Pillars of the Earth
September 17-18, 2022
Saturday at 7:30pm at Christ Church of the Ascension in Paradise Valley, Arizona
Sunday at 3:00pm at The Church of the Epiphany in Tempe, Arizona
The power centers of the European Renaissance not only had financial and military strength, but also strength in the arts. Nowhere else is this more evident than in the construction of major cathedrals and public buildings that served a variety of purposes including civic spaces, religious rites, and economic trade. Music played a predominant role in the celebrations and ceremonies of their lives and the life of the city. It also was a way to show dominance through expression, devotion, and innovation. Sparkling madrigals and chanson as well as sublimely rich examples of piety were on display for the elevation of their unique cultures, faith, and cities. Milan, Reims, Dresden, and Toledo are four such pillars that left their mark on the vocal arts with innovation, sublime beauty, and extensive influence.
Lift a Pint
October 16, 2022
Sunday at 6:00pm at The Newton in Phoenix, Arizona
Our annual celebration of song and spirits continues with English pub songs, rounds, and madrigals. You will also have the opportunity to sing a song or two with Helios as well as be part of our ever-popular joke contest. Have a rollicking good time with the singers of Helios and maybe lift a pint of your favorite beverage served by First Draft Book Bar (beer, tea, and coffee).
CANCELED:
A Winter's Tale
November 12-13, 2022
Saturday at 7:30pm at Christ Church of the Ascension in Paradise Valley, Arizona
Sunday at 3:00pm at The Church of the Epiphany in Tempe, Arizona
Due to temporary illness this program was canceled.
Love's Labour's Lost
February 11-12, 2023
Saturday at 7:30pm at Christ Church of the Ascension in Paradise Valley, Arizona
Sunday at 3:00pm at The Church of the Epiphany in Tempe, Arizona
“Love is a familiar. Love is a devil. There is no evil angel but love.”
This familiar quote from Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost in many ways frames the Renaissance preoccupation with courtly love and loss. With the intensity of first love and admiration, to the fear of rejection and heart-break, early music paved the way for the romantic pop songs and slow jams of today. They even titillated listeners with double entendre and hidden meanings that circumvented the polite manners of the court. So bring your sweetheart and get an early start on Valentine’s Day with beautiful strains of love.