Anna Maria, Chiara, Maddalena, Michielina, Santa…
These names whisper from the margins of 18th-century manuscripts—brilliant violinists whose extraordinary talents have been overshadowed by history. Now, Norwich Baroque invites you to discover their remarkable stories through an innovative evening that weaves together baroque masterpieces with literary excellence.
Join us for an unforgettable performance featuring award-winning author Harriet Constable, who will read from her acclaimed debut novel, The Instrumentalist—a captivating story of Vivaldi’s star protégée, violinist Anna Maria della Pietà.
Directed from the violin by Rachel Stroud, and featuring cellist Kate Bennett Wadsworth, the programme combines beloved classics such as Vivaldi’s Summer from The Four Seasons with rare concertos and sonatas written by and for the young women in the Venetian orphanages of the 18th century, whose playing astonished musical aficionados from all over Europe.
The Book Hive, Norwich’s beloved independent bookstore, will host a pop-up shop during the interval, featuring copies of The Instrumentalist in its new paperback edition—perfect for taking home a piece of this unique artistic experience.
