This fine Italian ensemble of six vocalists accompanied by cornetti and continuo presents an intriguing programme of recently unearthed vocal and instrumental music of the 16th and 17th centuries. Much of this music was written behind convent walls where both composition and performance were officially forbidden. “It was an early example of the women’s movement, expressed through the power of music” says music director Candace Smith, “and of course, it also reveals extraordinarily beautiful works, often written in secret and in many cases now heard for the first time since they were created.”

Pre-concert chat: 6:30 p.m.