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Arts & Entertainment

Musica Angelica Baroque Ensemble 2025-26 Season: Maestro Martin Haselbock's Final Year

The season features rich, expressive repertoire spanning the golden eras of Italian, German, and sacred music, including St. Matthew Passion

Artistic Director Martin Haselböck, whose 22-year leadership transformed the ensemble into a national and international force in historically-informed performance, will lead his farewell performances this season.
Artistic Director Martin Haselböck, whose 22-year leadership transformed the ensemble into a national and international force in historically-informed performance, will lead his farewell performances this season. (MEINRAD HOFER)

Musica Angelica, Southern California’s acclaimed Baroque ensemble's 2025–26 season is a stirring farewell to Artistic Director Martin Haselböck, whose 22-year leadership transformed the ensemble into a national and international force in historically-informed performance.

The season features rich, expressive repertoire spanning the golden eras of Italian, German, and sacred music, including Haselböck’s final interpretation of Bach’s monumental St. Matthew Passion. Performances will take place at First Congregational Church of Long Beach and First Congregational Church of Los Angeles.

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A Baroque Christmas in Germany

Festive, elegant, and deeply joyful—this holiday program highlights the rich seasonal traditions of Germany’s Baroque masters.

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  • Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 7:30 PM – First Congregational Church of Long Beach
  • Sunday, December 21, 2025 | 3:00 PM – First Congregational Church of Los Angeles (Shatto Chapel)

Valentine to the Viola da Gamba

An intimate and expressive concert centered on one of the Baroque era’s most poetic instruments, featuring solo and ensemble works that showcase its warm, human voice.

  • Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 7:30 PM – First Congregational Church of Long Beach
  • Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM – First Congregational Church of Los Angeles (Shatto Chapel)

St. Matthew Passion

Johann Sebastian Bach’s towering masterpiece, conducted for the final time by Martin Haselböck as Artistic Director of Musica Angelica. A farewell concert of extraordinary emotional power.

  • Saturday, March 28 | 6:00 PM – First Congregational Church of Long Beach
  • Sunday, March 29, 2026 | 3:00 PM – First Congregational Church of Los Angeles – Sanctuary

*Programming is subject to change.

This season will mark a historic finale for MARTIN HASELBÖCK. Since taking the helm in 2003, Martin Haselböck has shaped Musica Angelica’s artistic identity, bringing European authenticity, stylistic rigor, and interpretive passion to every performance. Under his leadership, the ensemble has toured internationally and collaborated with major institutions including LA Opera, Long Beach Opera, Pacific Chorale, and the LA Master Chorale.

This season serves as a tribute to his legacy—a chance for audiences to experience the depth and elegance that have defined more than two decades of musical excellence.

Visit www.musicaangelica.org or call the box office at (562) 276-0865 to reserve tickets.

ABOUT MUSICA ANGELICA

Musica Angelica is Southern California’s leading Baroque orchestra, known for performances on period instruments that are both historically accurate and artistically daring. Founded in 1993 and now in its 33rd season, the ensemble continues to inspire audiences through expressive programming, innovative collaborations, and world-class musicianship.

CONNECT WITH MUSICA ANGELICA

Website: www.musicaangelica.org

Instagram: @musicaangelica

Facebook: facebook.com/TheMusicaAngelica/

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