Madrigals of Love and War

A revolutionary masterpiece

Monteverdi’s Eighth Book of Madrigals (Madrigals of Love and War) stands among the greatest landmarks in music history. Published in 1638, it transformed the madrigal from an intimate vocal form into something theatrical and dramatic, opening the door to a new world of musical storytelling. Fascinated by the power of music to express every shade of human emotion, Monteverdi created a remarkable tapestry of feeling: yearning and ecstasy, tenderness and fury, courage, grief and hope. Nearly four centuries later, these works still speak with astonishing freshness and emotional relevance.

A handpicked ensemble of exceptional singers joins the Orchestra of the Antipodes, featuring internationally acclaimed Monteverdi specialist soprano Zoë Brookshaw in her Pinchgut debut alongside longtime Pinchgut favourite, soprano Miriam Allan. Together, they reveal the beauty, drama and emotional richness of Monteverdi’s visionary collection with the artistry and insight for which Pinchgut Opera is renowned.

At the heart of the program are two of Monteverdi’s most celebrated masterpieces: Il combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda, a gripping tale of love and conflict, and the hauntingly beautiful Lamento della Ninfa, one of the most moving laments ever composed.

Presented in a theatrical concert performance, this extraordinary collection invites you to experience the moment music discovered its dramatic voice, bringing Monteverdi's timeless world of love, war and human passion vividly to life.