Previously closed to the public the stunning heritage gallery is named in honour of the first female staff member
Emotionally charged, rhythmic and stylish the Renaissance song blossomed in the 16th century with distinctive styles emerging. Often driven by themes of desire and longing, their evocative melodies and poetic lyricism are timeless and still penetrate the soul. Full of imagination, from the French Chanson to the Elizabethan Ayre and the Italian Frottola and Villanella, these immensely fashionable songs were enjoyed by all layers of society and allowed for a freedom of expression and virtuosic instrumental displays.
6pm Saturday September 14
Isabella Fraser Room
State Library of Victoria
Jacqueline Porter – soprano
Adult $45 Concession $35 Youth $15
Reserved Seating
– choose your seats online
In 1595 the Spaniard Pedro Bermúdez makes an epic sea voyage to the Americas with nothing but his most precious music manuscripts. Fast forward 400 years, and now the Australian premier of his ‘Missa de Bomba’ will be performed side-by-side with the inspiration for this work, the intriguing Ensalada ‘La Bomba’ by Matheo Flecha. These two dramatic pieces with themes of shipwrecks and devotion will form the centrepiece of this program along with other splendid songs from Spain & the New World.
6pm Saturday November 16
Isabella Fraser Room
State Library of Victoria
Adult $45 Concession $35 Youth $15
Reserved Seating
– choose your seats online
Ruled by the mighty House of Medici, Florence the birthplace of the Renaissance was a thriving metropolis of beauty, art and imagination where celebrations were grand and the street festivals spectacular. The famed musicians of the Republic, the Piffari were central to aristocratic entertainments and to the sumptuous carnival festivities where all classes of Florentines gathered to join the masked performers parading through the streets singing and dancing the canzoni da ballo.
6pm Saturday March 2
Isabella Fraser Room
State Library of Victoria
Cristina Russo – soprano
In the early 17th century Rome was a city of political intrigue, the Papacy was at the peak of its power and aristocratic families wielded considerable influence. But Rome was also a symbol of incredible cultural and artistic achievements. Three musical giants of the Roman baroque were Girolamo Frescobaldi, Stefano Landi and Giovanni Kapsberger, they were amongst the most influential and talented composers of their era. A program full of innovation, emotion and intensity with stunning arias, stylish sinfonias and spirited dances.
6pm Saturday May 11
Isabella Fraser Room
State Library of Victoria
Brenton Spiteri – tenor
