Following health protocols, this week, the Orchestra della Toscana (ORT) presents three upcoming concerts as part of their summer series Enchanted Gardens and Villas. Following the orchestra’s comeback in mid-June with live concerts, the public is invited to listen to favorite musical pieces in the splendid setting of Medici country residences throughout the region at no charge.
ENCHANTED VILLAS & GARDENS
The series begins Tuesday, July 21 at the Medici Villa La Magia in Quarrata, near Pistoia. The ORT wind ensemble will perform the overture of Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro along with compositions by Donizetti and Rossini’s Barber of Seville. The Villa La Magia, built in the 14th century, acquired by the Medici family in the late 16th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With classical Italian gardens, fountains and a frescoed interior, the Medici family used it primarily as a hunting lodge. Like the rest of the performances, the concert is free while seating lasts.
The program continues on Wednesday, July 22. The setting, the Medici Villa of Artimino in Carmignano, is situated among rolling hills and vineyards. Built by architect Bernardo Buontalenti, the villa was once home to Galileo who was engaged as a tutor for the son of the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici.
The final evening on Friday, July 24 offers music fans an opportunity to enjoy the talent of Daniele Giorgi, the orchestra’s first violin. The program, Beethoven’s Quartet No. 4 and the iconic Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (A Little Night Music) by Mozart, will be presented at the Medici Villa Cerreto Guidi. Positioned on a hillside 40 kilometers (25 miles) outside Florence, Cosimo I’s hunting lodge provides panoramic views as far as the Apennines from the terrace.
All performances are free and begin at 9:30 pm and to comply with safe social distancing guidelines, it is necessary to book online at Eventbrite. More information and booking link can be found at the Orchestra della Toscana’s website. (rita kungel)
