Chiaroscuro was formed in 2014, although the artists had known each other for years. The three founding members - Ieva Baublytė (long flutes, gothic harp), Rūta Vox (baroque vocals), Vilimas Norkūnas (harpsichord, organ) - all received their specialised studies in Early Music in different countries (Switzerland, Italy and Austria). The performers were brought together by a common desire to develop in Lithuania the knowledge and experience of Early Music acquired in Western Europe. The ensemble is also pleased to be joined by the well-known guitarist Saulius Lipčius (lute forte and baroque guitar).The name of the ensemble, Chiaroscuro (pronounced "Chiaroscuro"), is Italian for "light". The conveyance of strong feelings, emotions and contrasting moods through light and darkness is widespread throughout the art of the Baroque era, from Caravaggio's paintings to the recitar cantare style of singing in the music of Giulio Caccini, Claudio Monteverdi, and other composers.