In the intricate weave of sounds that make up a baroque ensemble, the lute is central. It's fitting, then, that French-American lutenist Thomas Dunford is at the centre of some of the most exciting early music-making of the moment. A regular collaborator with everyone from Les Arts Florissants to his own band of all-stars, the Jupiter Ensemble, he has been dubbed the 'Eric Clapton of the lute' by BBC Music Magazine. It is with great delight that Musica Viva Australia presents Thomas Dunford's Australian debut. Thomas Dunford shares the stage with multi-award-winning cellist Nicolas Altstaedt. Since Altstaedt first performed for Musica Viva Australia – can it really be a decade ago? – his star has continued to soar, as soloist, as conductor and as artistic catalyst to festivals and ensembles worldwide. It is a precious treat to hear him in recital. What will these two originals create when they step on stage together? Anything could happen. But you can expect to be delighted by the genial invention of Louis XIV favourite Marais, dazzled by the virtuosic riffs of his rival Forqueray, and consoled by Bach's Cello Suites Nos. 1 and 5. Expect the unexpected too, as they perform music closer to our time by Henri Duparc, Arvo Pärt and more.