About Baroque Alchemy
Baroque Alchemy brings recorder and keyboard together in a musical partnership that crosses centuries, styles and sound-worlds. Recorder virtuoso Piers Adams and keyboardist Lyndy Mayle draw on historical repertoire and a remarkable range of instrumental colour to create performances that are vivid, expressive and full of surprise.
At the heart of the project is a partnership of equals. Adams brings over four decades of international experience as one of the world’s leading recorder players, widely known as the founder and frontman of the baroque quartet Red Priest. Mayle, a former prize-winning harpsichordist at the Royal College of Music, brings exceptional versatility and sensitivity to the keyboard, drawing on a deep understanding of historical styles alongside a broad palette of instrumental sounds.
Baroque Alchemy’s musical world is built around the natural, breath-driven voice of the recorder – ranging from historical instruments to powerful modern designs – and the extraordinary range of colour available from the keyboard. Harpsichord, lute, organ, piano, strings and percussion can sit alongside more unusual sounds and textures, allowing the character of the accompaniment to change completely from one piece to the next.
The duo’s programmes move freely across centuries and styles: reimagined baroque masterpieces, medieval and early-baroque gems, world and folk influences, modern works and improvisation. Sometimes they remain close to the sound-world of the original; elsewhere familiar music becomes the starting point for something quite different. Virtuosity is balanced with lyricism, humour and a strong sense of communication, creating concerts that feel alive, human and engaging.
Since its debut in 2022, Baroque Alchemy has performed extensively for music societies and festivals throughout the UK, appeared at international wind festivals in Germany and Spain, and released its debut album Breaking Free. Their performances have been praised for their originality, expressive power and the unmistakable chemistry between the two musicians.
