Jackson Free Press

Mississippi Academy of Ancient Music presents Istampita Sat., Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m. This Texas ensemble performs the medieval tale of Tristan and Isolde as told by Marie of France, in song and dance. St. Philip's Episcopal Church, Old Canton Rd. $15, $5 students. 601-852-4848, 601-977-7782. www.revolvingpaintdream.com/ancientmusic

Istanpitta is a Texas-based ensemble performing medieval music of the 10th to 14th centuries including many traditional middle eastern dances. The ensemble consists of 5 musicians playing a variety of period instruments including oud, lute, saz, early percussion, shawms, recorders, transverse flutes, krummhorns, vielles, medieval harp, bagpipes and voice. The group was formed by Al Cofrin during the summer of 1994, and now performs regularly across the United States.

Istanpitta's performances reflect Arabic and Middle Eastern influences common in Europe during the medieval period. Their performances frequently stray from the written texts, much as modern folk and jazz musicians make the music their own.

"Istanpitta took such upbeat material and played it with enthusiasm and an enjoyment that filtered throughout the audience." Austin Chronicle

"This music lives and breathes and stamps its feet, showing little sign of its advanced age." High Bias Review

Medieval Music Ensemble presents The Medieval Tale of Tristan and Isolde
Text from Marie de France's "Lai du chevrefoil" (The tale of the honeysuckle)
Chevrefoil
7:30 p.m., Saturday, January 20, 2007
St. Philip's Episcopal Church
Jackson, Mississippi
Admission: $15 (students: $5)
For further information contact us at 601-852-4848, 601-977-7782, or [e-mail missing]

This concert is supported in part by the Mississippi Arts Commission, the Greater Jackson Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as many friends.