On the evening of February 6, 2026, the Black Mountain Center for the Arts (BMCA) will
host a rare performance by world-renowned artists Ronn McFarlane and Carolyn Surrick.
This unique concert, scheduled for 7:30 PM, invites the community to witness a masterful
dialogue between two celebrated figures in early music. Performing on the lute and the
viola da gamba, McFarlane and Surrick bring to life a pairing of instruments that has
captivated listeners since the Renaissance, offered here within the intimate, acoustically
rich setting of Black Mountain’s premier cultural arts center.
Ronn McFarlane, a GRAMMY-nominated lutenist and a founding member of the Baltimore
Consort, is largely credited with bringing the lute into the modern mainstream. His musical
partner for the evening, Carolyn Surrick, is a distinguished viola da gamba player and the
founder of Ensemble Galilei, known for her profound ability to blend historical performance
with soulful storytelling. Having spent decades as champions of their respective
instruments, the duo’s partnership is a culmination of parallel journeys. Their shared
intuition creates a "timeless context" for ancient music, ensuring that these centuries-old
sounds resonate with contemporary depth and clarity. “Carolyn performed at BMCA last
spring with Ensemble Galilei,” says BMCA associate director John Hall. “We are thrilled to
have her return with Ronn for what is sure to be an unforgettable performance.”
The concert program promises an eclectic journey through time and geography, bridging
the gap between the courtly halls of the Baroque era and the rugged landscapes of
traditional folk music. Attendees can expect a repertoire that spans Renaissance and
Baroque classics, traditional Celtic and Swedish tunes, and original compositions from both
artists. This diverse selection highlights the versatility of the lute and viola da gamba,
moving seamlessly from haunting, meditative melodies to the rhythmic energy of regional
folk traditions.