A Venetian Vespers for Ascension

Chamber choir Londinium, conducted by Andrew Griffiths, are joined by two of the world's leading period instrument groups - the English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble and the Monteverdi String Band - to bring to life the sumptuous sounds of early Baroque Venice.The 'Fèsta de ła Sènsa' was a major celebration of Venice’s glory, as the Doge and his elaborate flotilla sailed out into the lagoon to throw a gold ring into the water, renewing the ritual marriage between the city and the sea.

To conjure the spirit of this splendid occasion, Andrew Griffiths and Londinium recreate a grand service of Vespers, including a Magnificat and five psalms by the incomparable Claudio Monteverdi, and perform lavish madrigals and motets by Andrea Gabrieli, Giovanni Gabrieli, Giovanni Croce and others appropriate to the secular festivities.