Michael LEOPOLD

theorbo

 

 

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November 13 & 14, 2026
The X-tet: Sounds of Italy

 

 
 

Michael Leopold holds degrees in music and historical plucked instruments from American universities and a degree in lute and theorbo from L’Istituto di Musica Antica in Milan. Originally from Northern California, he lived in Milan for 16 years and Canada for five before returning to the United States. He has performed as both soloist and accompanist across Europe, Australia, Japan, South America, Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

Leopold has collaborated with leading Italian early music ensembles such as Concerto Italiano and La Risonanza, as well as with major orchestras and opera companies including Opera Australia, San Francisco Opera, Los Angeles Opera, and Chicago Opera Theater.

His performances have been praised for their sensitivity and brilliance. Reviews noted his “sensitive and heartfelt” playing (Chicago Classical Music) and “dazzling” recitatives (Seen and Heard International). His recordings appear on labels such as Stradivarius, Glossa, Linn, and Naxos.

 

“Michael Leopold played a theorbo, with wonderfully resonant unstopped bass strings. In several sonatas, Leopold picked up a versatile Baroque guitar that he either plucked as a melodic instrument or strummed for a powerful percussive effect.”

—Musical Intelligencer