'Monteverdi’s finest works, in all their pioneering, expressive glory, in the most beautiful city on Earth – his home for half his creative life.

Monteverdi’s genius lies in no small part in his ability to draw from the Renaissance tradition, while also leaping forward into modernity – fusing music and words to convey emotion and psychological depth, creating unprecedented contrast and drama. The chiaroscuro depth and artistic qualities of his achievements are entirely comparable to his contemporaries Shakespeare and Caravaggio, and as a musical dramatist he ranks in the highest level of the pantheon of greats, alongside Handel, Mozart and Verdi.

The composer spent over 30 years in Venice – one of the most prosperous trading centres in Europe and capital of an extensive empire, as well as a major centre of music. We hear three of his most iconic larger works over the course of the festival:

Although not the very first opera, L’Orfeo is the earliest still regularly performed worldwide, and it can be argued that it is the first ‘fable in music’ to reveal the emotional, lyrical, musical and dramatic capabilities of the genre. I Fagiolini perform for us in the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, lavishly decorated by Tintoretto, on the very date of their 40th anniversary.

The renowned Academy of Ancient Music bring us Monteverdi’s final opera, L’Incoronazione di Poppea, written during his time in Venice, and still celebrated for its dramatic realism, and unflinching portrayal of love, ambition, and betrayal.

Our final concert is the monumental 1610 Vespers, in the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, where Monteverdi is buried. Emotionally charged, theatrical, yet deeply spiritual, it is the perfect note on which to end.

There are three further interspersed performances: acclaimed Monteverdi interpreters Concerto Italiano perform a selection of madrigals from all eight books; the Academy of Ancient Music returns with Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda and other works from Book 8; and distinguished Italian ensemble Odhecaton performs a sacred programme, including the Missa in Illo Tempore.

Professor John Bryan gives daily talks on the music, which illuminate and inform, and art historians lead optional walks and visits.

Venice has no equal – and to hear Monteverdi’s music here in private palaces, illustrious churches and eminent scuole, performed by some of the best musicians in the world, is to experience the city as never before.'

You can find out more about the festival and book your place to join on Martin Randall Travel's website, via the link below.