Inspired by Christine de Pizan (1364-ca.1430) – the revolutionary writer who questioned the centuries-old treatment of women and their prescribed place and role in society, this year’s Festival theme WOMENinSIGHT, explores the impact and the role of women throughout history via a musical lens. Discovery is at the heart of the Festival – ranging from cloistered nuns to renowned singers, to acclaimed writers and composers writing for historical instruments past and present, audiences will bask in works shadowed by history and hear newly created ones. The festival opens with the world premiere of The Queen of Carthage – an operatic performance co-produced with re:Naissance Opera, including commissioned new works by female composers alongside those of Baroque masters.
Bach aficionados are sure to appreciate the three concerts dedicated to JS Bach – Alexander Weimann’s Well-Tempered Organ – a mesmerizing organ concert; The Bach Parodies – an homage to Bach by Next Generation cellist Jessica Korotkin & friends, showcasing an eclectic variety of Bach-inspired musical parodies, and the Festival’s grand finale A Woman’s Voice in Bach’s World with three of Bach’s splendid cantatas on texts by librettist Christiane Mariane von Ziegler.
The festival brings together more than 60 artists from around the globe, including this year’s Artist-in-Residence, Catalina Vicens from Italy. We can’t wait to share these exciting stories and expressive music with you!
