Greece's Armonia Atenea is one of the few major orchestras to perform on both modern and period instruments. The group has been affiliated with the Friends of Music Society in Athens and has used the names Athens Camerata and Friends of Music Orchestra. Armonia Atenea is the name used in connection with international commitments, of which the orchestra has had many. The group's artistic director is Greek conductor and pianist George Petrou, who has developed specialties in Baroque opera and contemporary music. Its former artistic directors include many well-known musicians, and it has hosted many high-profile instrumental soloists and vocalists. Armonia Atenea's recordings have appeared on Decca, Sony Classical, EMI Classics, MDG, ECM, and other top labels and have won several major awards. ~ James Manheim
