Baroque repertoire is dominated by 18th century works from western European composers. So what a delight to hear not just English but also Scottish and Irish music of the early Baroque period in this one-off concert.

Toe-tapping Gaelic rhythms were showcased during the first 30 minutes of Baroque Echoes, a rarefied hour of 17th century music whose second half explored England’s generally more formal style.

Throughout the program, Renaissance and early Baroque specialists La Compañia accomplished a rare alchemy: exacting, scholarly musicianship and a joyfulness that comes from easy familiarity with the music and each other.

These eight Melbourne musicians were joined on the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall stage by soprano Jacqueline Porter, whose gown of emerald green was apropos for the opening bracket from Ireland.

Jacqueline Porter and La Compañia. Photo La Compañia/Facebook

Porter was underpowered in the lower register during the first song, Óró Mhór a Mhóirín, and her diction was sometimes lacking during this concert.

There was always a charming sweetness about Porter’s voice though (notably in playful Scottish song John Anderson My Jo), and a pretty ringing quality to her top notes.

Both the Irish and Scottish brackets also featured traditional jigs...