Double Bass Starting a Period Ensemble

[PRUNEFACE]

I may potentially have the support of one or two of the local symphonies in creating a period ensemble.
Which, as musicians, would you feel would be the ideal "compromise" if there are money problems (we haven't talked about what could truly be afforded, we just discussed the general, big picture ideas) with the creation of this ensemble/orchestra?

Options:
1.) Authentic Instrumentation BUT owned by the ensemble/supporters of the ensemble
2.) Modern Instruments setup in the style of the period (gut strings, action etc.)
3.) Simply perform on modern instruments and setup (which to me defeats the point...)
4.) (Other option I'm not thinking of?)

 

[PaulCannon]

Take a look at what other ensembles are currently doing. Mercury Baroque, an historical music ensemble in Houston, has a bit of a mix. They use modern violins and violas with gut strings and period bows. Occasionally they will have a modern double bass with gut strings. They also have gambas, lutes, theorbo, harpsichord, and a number of period wind instruments.

There aren't many violinists who own baroque violins, and fewer still who can play them. Your group will sound best if the performers are comfortable on the instruments they use.

 

[PRUNEFACE]

I am actually looking at late baroque and early classical if that changes anything as far as setup.
And the bow thing is something I have considered. THAT most musicians in these orchestras can afford.
Gut strings are almost a requirement for what I want to do.