The Prince of Music

Stile Antico returns in 2026 to Passion of the Voices with a tribute to the undisputed master of the style from which the vocal ensemble derives its name: Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525/26-1594). Palestrina, ‘the Prince of music’, was born exactly 500 years ago. The Italian composer’s brilliant career was inextricably linked to the papacy and the great Roman churches for which he composed.

In this programme, the British ensemble explores the music he would have sung in the Sistine Chapel, and the changes in style resulting from the Counter-Reformation and its unmistakable influence that continued to reverberate with his successors for generations to come. Expect a sumptuous repertoire, featuring several of Palestrina's best-loved and timeless motets, musical gems by other leading composers active in Rome, and a new work by leading British composer Cheryl Frances-Hoad.

Music by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Cheryl Frances-Hoad, Josquin des Prez, Orlandus Lassus and others.

• this performance is part of Voices of Passion 2026

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Voices of Passion 2026

Leuven and polyphony have been intertwined for years and years. Together with the Alamire Foundation, 30CC puts this tradition under the spotlight, using current knowledge and performance practice, during this Passion of Voices festival.

In this edition of Passion of Voices we draw a musical line through time. Five generations of composers shaped the polyphonic music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and also put the Low Countries unmistakably on the map as the home of polyphony.

More info

www.stileantico.co.uk

with Helen Ashby, Kate Ashby, Rebecca Hickey, Emma Ashby, Cara Curran, Rosie Parker, Andrew Griffiths, Jonathan Hanley, Benedict Hymas, James Arthur, Nathan Harrison en Gareth Thomas photo Eduardus Lee