Early Music America

Frescobaldi and Fantini left a few clues as to how one might approach their works, although those details are still hotly contested.

Next season will mark 50 years since the founding of Early Music Vancouver — an organization that has exerted much influence on Vancouver’s classical listening habits.

Mr. Byrne, 36, is regarded by many as the leading viol player of his generation, a specialist in obscure repertoire and a leader in Europe’s early-music scene. But his appearance — hipsterish beard, close-cropped hair, all-black outfit, sneakers — suggested something a little edgier.