Monteverdi: Sacred and Profane – Come, sing and explore

Wednesday 27 September, 10am

St Thomas Church, Lymington

 A chance to deep-dive into sublime 17th century Italian repertoire whether you are a seasoned singer or just an occasional choir member. This day course, led by soprano Kate Semmens and harpsichordist and conductor Steven Devine, will work on a number of wonderful pieces, culminating in an informal performance at the end of the day.

Timings for the day

1000 – 1015 Registration and welcome
1015 – 1145 Session 1 – tutti
1145 – 1205 Short break
1205 – 1330 Session 2 – separate into smaller groups to work on smaller-scale works
1330 – 1430 LUNCH
1430 – 1615 Session 3
1630 – 1700 Informal sing-through of the day’s work

Repertoire

This course will aim to feature a range of vocal repertoire by Claudio Monteverdi including Psalm settings from 1610 Vespers and Selva Morale e spirituali, choruses from the operas and some smaller-scale madrigals. Please note that we reserve the right to alter the repertoire according to the voices we get.

Availability for all voice types (Soprano, alto, tenor, bass).  This course will be largely unaccompanied apart from a continuo bass (harpsichord/lute) so an ability to hold a line in an ensemble is desirable.  No prior experience of this repertoire or the language is needed.