magdalena
is a self-directed collective of early, new, and folk music specialists based on the US east coast. Through immersive storytelling, genre expansion, and interdisciplinary endeavors, Magdalena strives to make period music accessible and enjoyable to all, regardless of age or background.
Debuted in 2023, Magdalena’s current musician lineup includes Mira Fu-En Huang (voice/percussion), Cole Manel (plectrum instruments), Cameron Welke (plucked strings), and Niccolo Seligmann (bowed strings). Guest musicians involved in Magdalena’s projects have included Sarah Shodja (winds), Tina Chancey (Renaissance fiddle), Ben Matus (winds), Sarah Lynn (winds), Liv Castor (harp), and Siqi Tong (erhu).
Magdalena has performed across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond, having been featured by presenters such as Gotham Early Music Scene (GEMS) Midtown Concerts, the Indianapolis Early Music Festival, and Early Music Now. The ensemble was thrilled to be selected as one of Early Music America (EMA)’s Emerging Artists of 2024, and to act as Arizona Early Music’s Emerging Ensemble in Residency in 2025.
Originally an Ancient Greek and Hebrew name meaning “woman of magdala,” or “woman of the tower,” the name Magdalena has traveled across countries and centuries to the present day, where its diminutive ‘Madeleine’ is most prevalent. It is a name that represents multiple eras and cultures, in sacred and secular contexts alike. As an ensemble, Magdalena strives to embody the nature of its name by celebrating multiple genres of music, while making early music a timeless and valuable experience to as many audiences as possible.
“Magdalena concluded Early Music Now’s 2024/25 subscription series with Salon: Scenes from a French Landscape, a thoughtfully devised program delivered with admirable stage presence and remarkable musicianship. Following a standing ovation, the audience was universal in their praise of the young ensemble. Early Music Now immediately re-engaged the ensemble for a future season. Highly recommended!” –Charles Grosz, Executive & Artistic Director of Early Music Now