In the opening concert of the 2026–27 season, and the first in a series exploring the wonders of the Italian Baroque, Sestina Music programme presents madrigals by Carlo Gesualdo, Barbara Strozzi and Claudio Monteverdi. Three radical composers who redefined and influenced vocal music for centuries to come. From Fire and Ice unlocks heartbreak, joy, suffering, and ecstasy through Baroque vocal music at its most expressive. This music explores what it is to be human in a way that feels emphatically modern to this day. The works of Strozzi feature throughout the season, marking 350 years since her death, alongside fellow Baroque masters Gesualdo and Monteverdi, and many more.

Under the musical direction of Artistic Director Malachy Frame, alongside five other virtuosic singers, harpsichord, organ, and theorbo, the concert transports audiences to the romantic, bold, and wondrous world of Baroque Italy.

Performers:
Aisling Kenny, Charlotte O'Hare sopranos
Sarah Thursfield mezzo-soprano
James Robinson tenor
Malachy Frame baritone, musical director
Christopher Webb bass
Toby Carr theorbo
Tristan Russcher harpsichord, organ