Music

Ask any Italian what gives them pride and pleasure, and music would almost certainly come up as the country has long been an important centre of classical music. From the glorious musical capital of the Renaissance, the Franco Abbiati prize-winning Mantua Chamber Orchestra performs a selection of the finest Italian music with international soloists, led by maestro Umberto Benedetti Michelangeli. Acclaimed cellist and Artistic Director Trey Lee presents Hong Kong’s violin prodigy Hannah Tam, joined by two celebrated singers, Sophie Klussmann and Mauro Borgioni, in their Hong Kong debut.

The program starts with Respighi’s third suite from Ancient Airs and Dances, paying homage to the grace and elegance of Italian Renaissance music. The Italian theme continues with arias from Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro, Don Giovanni and La clemenza di Tito, as opera originated in Italy. Rossini’s expressive instrumental work Une Larme (A Tear) makes a brilliant showcase for the cellist, while Vivaldi’s Double Concerto in F demonstrates the prolific composer’s virtuoso handling of concerto form. The extravaganza tops off with the rare gem of Boccherini’s Symphony No.4 in D minor, ending the 5th Musicus Fest on a high note.