Celebrating 20 years of historical performance in the Pioneer Valley and beyond, Arcadia Players announces its 2009–2010 concert season, A Season of Anniversaries, featuring works of 15th to 19th century composers in the year of significant anniversaries. In the words of Artistic Director Ian Watson, “What better way to observe our 20th anniversary than to play great works in their anniversary years?” Watson notes that the season will include a variety of large and small ensemble programs in the group’s wide-ranging repertory and will delve into territory that is new for Arcadia.

Among the season’s offerings are Handel’s Messiah, Arcadia’s second All-Beethoven Concert, A Consort of Viols, and performances by Arcadia’s Founding Trio and by the vocal ensemble Cantabile. A 20th Anniversary Gala will showcase Arcadia Players’ musical luminaries and landmark performances.

In addition to its regular season concerts, members of Arcadia Players will perform a Mendelssohn concert in November to benefit Wistariahurst, which is celebrating its 50th year as a museum. Also in November, Ian Watson will serve as music director and conduct the Orchestra in Commonwealth Opera’s production of Mozart’s Così fan tutte. In June, Arcadia takes its season finale All-Beethoven Concert to Worcester and to the Connecticut Early Music Festival.