SACRED MASTERPIECES OF THE MEDICI
An exclusive weekend celebrating rediscovered masterpieces from the time of the Medici rulers, brought to new life by the work of the Sacred Music Programme (SMP), and performed by our vocal ensemble Vox Medicea in collaboration with the award-winning English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble
Sacred Masterpieces of the Medici is an exclusive annual tradition that shines a spotlight on the sacred music of Renaissance Florence, celebrating rediscovered masterpieces from the illustrious era of the Medici rulers. Through the dedicated work of the Sacred Music Programme (SMP), these forgotten treasures are brought vividly back to life, performed by the professional male-voice ensemble Vox Medicea in collaboration with the award-winning English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble.
Now in its third year, Sacred Masterpieces of the Medici has become a firmly established beacon of cultural and musical excellence. Since its inception, the weekend has drawn distinguished audiences to some of Florence’s most iconic historic sites, including the Palazzo Pitti, the Basilica of San Lorenzo, and the churches of Santa Felicita, the Certosa, and San Francesco. Each year, the programme has offered a carefully curated selection of rarely heard sacred works, many of which were only recently rediscovered through the meticulous scholarship of the Sacred Music Programme.
Previous seasons have featured masterclasses with celebrated artists, intimate performances of smaller-scale repertoire, and grand polychoral concerts accompanied by period instruments, all performed by Vox Medicea alongside the English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble. These events are unique in their dedication to reviving the vibrant sacred musical culture of Renaissance Florence, offering an extraordinary and unmatched opportunity to experience firsthand the Medici’s profound artistic legacy at the very heart of the Renaissance. The 2022 edition, notably marked by a special concert in the historic Palazzo Vecchio, helped cement the festival’s reputation as a vital and living tribute to the sacred musical heritage of this extraordinary period.
This year, we are honoured to present the world premiere of a specially commissioned work by the celebrated composer Nico Muhly, inspired by a 16th-century Florentine motet recently rediscovered by the Sacred Music Programme.
We are also delighted to welcome back the distinguished soprano Dame Emma Kirkby, renowned early music pioneer and multi-recording artist, who will lead an open masterclass with our soloists. Guests will be offered exclusive access to some of Florence’s most stunning and historic venues, experiencing the transcendent sound of Renaissance sacred music performed in the spaces for which they were originally intended. The weekend’s offerings are complemented by distinguished dinners and luncheon receptions held in select, atmospheric locations, providing an unforgettable homage to the city’s rich musical and cultural heritage.
SCHEDULE
28 November
Members only
29 November
Members + Free Event
30 November
Members Only
EVENTS AND DETAILS
SACRED MASTERPIECES OF THE MEDICI AT THE CHURCH DI SANTA FELICITA
SACRED MASTERPIECES OF THE MEDICI
