Armonie a Palazzo
Armonie a Palazzo – or Harmonies at the Palace, as it is known in English – is a remarkable event which connects art with music in the heart of the Eternal City. Allow yourself to be transported to a truly unique event. The reserve of the lucky few who are able to attend, this exclusive concert takes place at the extraordinary Palazzo Patrizi Montoro. Once inside, attendees can explore some of the palace's charming frescoed rooms and enjoy a rendition of The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi, a timeless classic of Italian music. In short, Armonie a Palazzo blends a top-quality performance with the undoubted elegance of a historic residence, one that rarely opens its doors to the public.
What makes this particular performance of the baroque-era masterpiece a one-of-a-kind is the setting. Armonie a Palazzo in Rome offers a somewhat exclusive chance to explore part of the Patrizi Montoro palace. Before the concert, audience goers can wander through several of the palace's finest rooms, taking in the numerous works of art kept in the palace with an exceptional guided tour. A professional audio guide is provided for the tour, available in most languages including English. It typically takes between 30 and 40 minutes to complete. Attendees will be able to immerse themselves in the refined atmosphere of one of Rome's hidden jewels, making this an event that's special in many ways.
Written in the early 18th century – the exact date of their composition is not known – The Four Seasons is a quartet of violin concertos, each one sophisticatedly capturing the character and nature of the passing year. Vivaldi's great work was first published in Amsterdam in 1725 although it is thought they were conceived and written while the composer was working as court chapel master in Mantua, located in Lombardy. The Four Seasons concert, which lasts about an hour, opens with a distinctive allegro movement in E major to represent the coming of spring. It then progresses through each season until the final movement of Winter, scored in F minor. This exceptional performance at the palazzo makes use of a string ensemble consisting of violins, violas and cellos.
The original structure of Palazzo Patrizi Montoro was a relatively modest house when first constructed, a dwelling that Alfonsina Orsini sold to Gaspero dei Garzoni di Jesi in 1512. After this sale, the property became more and more palatial due to various modifications and renovation works. In 1605, the then-owner, Olimpia Aldobrandini, purchased the property next door to combine the two. A new façade to join the two homes in an architecturally pleasing way was ordered at this time, and subsequently completed in 1611. The palace, which is named after its current owners, houses artworks by the likes of Vasari, Maratta, Pietro da Cortona and Passeri and these adorn its magnificent walls to this day.
The majesty of the historic palace combined with the sublime music of Vivaldi will make this event a memorable experience for all lovers of fine Italian culture.