Stile Antico

Throughout the Renaissance, composers found deep inspiration in the emotional narrative of Holy Week. Central to this story are the women who followed Jesus, who kept watch by the cross and who intended to care for his body. The Virgin Mary’s grief at the death of her son is explored in contrasting settings of the Stabat Mater, an anguished 13th-century poem which has resonated with composers down the centuries. Conversely, the discovery of the empty tomb on Easter morning by Mary Magdalene and her companions prompted some of the most joyful music of the Renaissance. In this intense and moving programme, Stile Antico traces the emotional journey of these women from the despair of Good Friday to the ecstasy of Easter morning.