Fair Oriana
A Secret Music
With 'A Secret Music', they uncover the secret music of Ferrara’s legendary sopranos. Uncover the secrets of the Concerto delle donne, the extraordinary trio of female singers whose virtuoso performances transformed the court of Ferrara in the late 16th century. Renowned for their dazzling technique, intricate ornamentation and expressive precision, these women inspired composers to explore new possibilities in vocal writing and create what was known as musica secreta, that is, music performed in private for select audiences.
This programme celebrates their artistry with the music of Luzzaschi, Strozzi and de Wert, as well as a modern work by Caroline Shaw, highlighting the beauty, intricacy, and emotional depth of music written for three sopranos. From the private brilliance of the Ferrara court to the expressive innovations that continue to this day, the concert offers a journey through a unique and influential musical world.
Performers:
Angela Hicks, Penelope Appleyard, Lucy Cox sopranos
Harry Buckoke viola da gamba
Jonatan Bougt theorbo
Tara Viscardi triple harp
The Painted Church, Cambridge
Sun, 15 February 2026
All Saints' Church, Cambridge
2:30pm
£5 - £15
Full Event Details
Fair Oriana are sopranos Angela Hicks, Penelope Appleyard and Lucy Cox.
With 'A Secret Music', they uncover the secret music of Ferrara’s legendary sopranos. Uncover the secrets of the Concerto delle donne, the extraordinary trio of female singers whose virtuoso performances transformed the court of Ferrara in the late 16th century. Renowned for their dazzling technique, intricate ornamentation and expressive precision, these women inspired composers to explore new possibilities in vocal writing and create what was known as musica secreta, that is, music performed in private for select audiences.
This programme celebrates their artistry with the music of Luzzaschi, Strozzi and de Wert, as well as a modern work by Caroline Shaw, highlighting the beauty, intricacy, and emotional depth of music written for three sopranos. From the private brilliance of the Ferrara court to the expressive innovations that continue to this day, the concert offers a journey through a unique and influential musical world.
Performers:
Angela Hicks, Penelope Appleyard, Lucy Cox sopranos
Harry Buckoke viola da gamba
Jonatan Bougt theorbo
Tara Viscardi triple harp
Venue Details & Map
Location
All Saints' Church, Cambridge
Jesus Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8BP
