CONCERT: DIARI D'UN VIATGER - EL CONCIERTO SECRETO

The eminent French philosopher and humanist, Michel de Montaigne, embarked in 1580 on an extensive journey from France to Italy, also passing through Germany. Interestingly, this same year marked the creation of the renowned female ensemble Il Concerto Segreto at the court of Ferrara.

Throughout his travels, Montaigne painted an intimate and contemporary portrait of life in late 16th-century Europe. His delicate narrative immerses us in the experiences of its protagonist, who faces deeply human afflictions such as kidney colic or bothersome migraines. The account covers everything from the culinary peculiarities of each region to the religious challenges of the time, rural life, sightseeing excursions, notable spas with their thermal waters, and even a detailed guide to inns—highlighting both the most recommendable and the less fortunate ones encountered along the way. As we progress through the reading, it becomes difficult to determine whether Montaigne is a modern man or merely a 16th-century inhabitant, given how little human concerns have changed over time.

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In this program, we propose a sonic journey through the places Montaigne explored, performing compositions from the same era. We begin our journey with the beautiful French melodies Montaigne might have heard in his homeland. As we venture into Germany, we delve into captivating Germanic tunes before continuing with the musical accompaniment of Italy. We will traverse Italy's major cities, where Montaigne encountered notable figures such as Veronica Franco, the Duke of Ferrara, and even the Pope of Rome.

EL CONCIERTO SECRETO
Laia Blasco, voice and narration
Juliette Commeaux, harp