Voices of Passion

Voices of Passion

The House of Anjou and the Anjou Bible provide the theme for the Voices of Passions concerts. Voices of Passions presents music from the beginning of the burgeoning of music in Naples under Robert‟s predecessor Charles of Anjou through to the polyphonic masterpieces which can be linked to the rule and music policy of Robert I himself.

Le Jeu de Robin et Marion (Adam de la Halle)

Micrologus led by Patrizia Bovi Monday November 1st 2010 - 20.00 hrs, Dominican Friars‟ Church (Predikherenkerk), Romaanse Poort Introduction to the concert by musicologist Sofie Taes, 19.00 - 19.40 hrs

Under Charles of Anjou (1226-1286) musical life at the Neapolitan court changed course. He invested in more and better musicians, a healthy artistic climate prevailed providing scope for musical experimentation and music was increasingly influenced by elements of French court culture. One of the most gifted musicians at Charles' court was undoubtedly the trouvère Adam de la Halle, who wrote the celebrated musical pastoral play Le Jeu de Robin et Marion while in service in Naples. This mix of spoken comedy and profane – often popular – songs produced a unique medieval spectacle in which the lovers Robin and Marion provide a demonstration of uncomplicated, rural gaiety in a succession of lively and elegant scenes – at least, as it was presented at the Neapolitan court... Ensemble Micrologus provides an inspired and refreshing rendition of Le Jeu: the early instruments, the role played by percussion and the specific style of singing guarantee an evening to remember!

A Divine Comedy: Guelfs and Ghibellines duel

ClubMediéval led by Thomas Baeté Tuesday November 2nd 2010 - 20.00 hrs, Dominican Friars‟ Church (Predikherenkerk), Romaanse Poort Introduction to the concert by musicologist Sofie Taes, 19.00 - 19.40 hrs

During the Middle Ages Italian cities laboured under an on-going internal struggle between two socio-political factions: the Guelfs (including Dante Alighieri) – true to the Pope – and the Ghibellines, who sided with the emperor. The brand-new ensemble led by the highly talented Fleming Thomas Baeté gives musical expression to this turbulent internecine conflict. Robert I of Naples, leader of the Guelfs, is the key figure: as a supporter of Pope Benedict XII and patron of numerous musicians in his entourage in Avignon, Robert I can be linked to the famous music codices of Apt and Ivrea, which include a motet by Philippe de Vitry dedicated to Robert. The Ghibellines appear on stage with compositions from the Holy Roman Empire. The result is an artistic sparring match, a quest for musical antitheses and hidden harmonies.

Partners: 30CC & Alamire Foundation with the support of the City of Leuven.