Manfred Cordes

German Early Music Conductor and Scholar

Manfred Cordes is a German conductor, musicologist, and specialist in early music, particularly known for his work with Renaissance and Baroque repertoire. He has been involved in the academic study and performance of historical music, often focusing on lesser-known works and composers. Cordes is the founder and director of Weser-Renaissance Bremen, an ensemble dedicated to the performance of early music using historically informed practices. Under his leadership, the ensemble has gained recognition for its precise and stylistically faithful interpretations, contributing to a deeper understanding of early music. They have recorded extensively, including works by Schütz, Schein, and Praetorius, among others. Cordes's contributions to the field of early music have been significant in reviving interest in this rich period of musical history through both performance and scholarly research.