The Girton College Chapel Choir, with the assistance of the Historic Brass of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, have gained a reputation as pioneers of the music of this composer who taught Claudio Monteverdi and their recordings of his music have received critical acclaim, having featured on BBC Radio 3 and reached the Top 10 of the Classical Music Charts.
The Girton College Chapel Choir's outstanding tour this year in Italy commemorated the 380th Anniversary of Claudio Monteverdi's passing. The venues held not only stunning beauty but also a rich history connected to Monteverdi and his teacher, Marc’Antonio Ingegneri. Although his more famous pupil eclipsed him, Ingegneri's compositions, as performed by the Choir, exhibit an exceptional quality that could indeed inspire even Monteverdi himself.
The tour commenced with a concert at Cremona Cathedral, where Marc’Antonio Ingegneri once held the position of Director of Music. Collaborating with the Historic Brass of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, the ensemble brought centuries-old compositions back to life. Together they performed pieces which had not been heard for centuries. It is thanks to the work of Girton Fellow and Director of the Chapel Choir, Dr Gareth Wilson, who edited the works of Ingegneri that they are being shared with the world once again.
Continuing their journey across Northern Italy, the Choir graced the halls of St Abbondio in Cremona, where Monteverdi was baptized, and the Basilica Santa Barbara in Mantova. It was within the walls of Santa Barbara that Monteverdi had once directed music, including his renowned Vespers service.
As the tour of Italy concluded, the Choir visited Oxford to record their latest album of captivating pieces by Ingegneri. Both the tour and the recording process reflects the Choir's commitment to preserving musical heritage and ensured that Ingegneri's work continues to echo through time.
- Click on the photograph below to view some of the stunning locations the Choir performed in
Venues
- Cathedral of Cremona (Duomo di Cremona), Cremona
- Church of Sant'Abbondio (Chiesa di Sant'Abbondio), Cremona
- Church of San Francesco (Chiesa di San Francesco), Lodi
- Church of San Bernardino (Chiesa di San Bernardino), Crema
- Basilica of Saints John and Paul, Venice
- Basilica of Santa Barbara, Mantua
Schedule
Marc'Antonio Ingegneri (1535 or 6-1592): Missa Gustate et videte and various Motets
Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643): Various motets
If you are interested in hearing Ingegneri, the Choir have recorded multiple CDs which can be purchased or streamed online! To catch a glimpse of behind-the-scenes moments from both the album recording and the tour, follow the Choir on: