At the turn of the 17th and 18th centuries, London became one of the most dynamic musical capitals in Europe. The city attracted a generation of composers and performers from Italy, whose style, virtuosity, and theatrical flair captivated English audiences. In a society eager for novelty, these musicians found fertile ground to develop their art, participate in the life of the theaters, found musical academies, and leave a lasting influence on British taste.

Among these artists, Giovanni Bononcini and Francesco Geminiani occupy a prominent place. The former, a declared rival of Handel, conquered London with his elegant and expressive operas. The latter, an exceptional violinist, introduced a new vision of performance and instrumental pedagogy. Both embody this fruitful encounter between Italian tradition and the vibrant London scene.

Alongside them, we also discuss Antonio Caldara, a major figure of the Italian Baroque. Although he never lived in London, his influence resonated throughout Europe and directly impacted German composers living in England. His inclusion in this program is a reminder of how artistic exchanges transcended borders and fostered a truly European musical culture.

This concert invites you to explore a moment in history when London became, for a time, the preferred stage for talent from Italy, and when dialogue between nations shaped some of the most beautiful works of the Baroque era, to the sounds of the recorder, viola da gamba, and harpsichord.
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