Our Mission

The Society operates chiefly on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The Society's purpose is to

(a) promote interest and participation in early music, and foster its better appreciation among the public;

(b) sponsor early music performances and workshops;

(c) acquire such musical instruments, music and equipment as may be necessary to effect the foregoing objects; and

(d) acquire any other assets as may be deemed necessary to fulfill these objects.

About EARLY MUSIC SOCIETY OF THE ISLANDS

Based in Victoria BC, the Early Music Society of the Islands (EMSI) is one of North America's most active and successful early music societies. It was founded in 1985 to promote interest in historically-informed performances of music composed before 1800.

EMSI presents annual concert seasons of music from the middle ages to the early classical period. Its concert home is the beautiful Alix Goolden Hall. All concerts feature internationally acclaimed period instrument ensembles: Hesperion, Baltimore Consort, Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, Amsterdam Loeki Stardust Quartet, Ton Koopman, Nancy Argenta and Daniel Taylor are among the notable artists the Society has presented.

EMSI offers an early music bursary, arranges master classes with visiting artists, helps local musicians promote their concerts, and makes its harpsichord available for community early music concerts. It is a 100% volunteer, non-profit organization.