Gathering in Florence for the 87th edition of the Fiorentine Music Festival

Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Festival Kicks Off with a Spectacular Lineup

The 87th edition of the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Festival in Florence is set to open on May 13, with a captivating performance of Richard Strauss' opera "Salome". The performances will continue until June 21, with additional shows on May 16, 23, and 27.

In a remarkable turn of events, Philippe Jordan will conduct the performance of "Salome" at the Teatro del Maggio. Emma Dante, the acclaimed director, will bring her unique vision to life, as Allison Oakes takes on the title role. In an interview, Dante described the Dance of the Seven Veils in "Salome" as a dance of nature, with Salome as the central pistil and slaves as petals, driven by the wind.

"Salome" is based on Oscar Wilde's tragedy and promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning production.

Meanwhile, in Rovigo, another highlight of the festival is the performance of Gian Francesco Malipiero's "La Cena" on May 2. Matteo Dal Maso will direct this performance, which will feature the choir singing the role of Christ, while the Apostles will be sung by soloists. The Orchestra of Padova and the Veneto, Coro Città di Piazzola sul Brenta, and soloists Nicola Didonè, Cristiano Didonè, Tareq Wahba will come together for this concert.

The text for "La Cena" is taken from Pierozzo Castellano de' Castellani's "Rappresentazione della Cena e Passione". This performance will also include Haydn's "The Passion" Symphony.

In Milan, music lovers can look forward to a program featuring works by Mozart, Mendelssohn, and Beethoven, performed by Quartetto Eos, along with Scala's principal players and pianist Gabriele Carcano, on April 1 at the Conservatory. This program is a recreation of the same one that launched the Società del Quartetto 161 years ago.

Alexander Soddy, who has previously impressed Scala audiences with his conduct of Wagner's "Das Rheingold" and "Die Walküre," will also conduct "Salome" during the festival.

Another performance of "La Cena" is scheduled for April 1 at the Santuario della Madonna della Salute in Monteortone.

This year's Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Festival promises to be a musical extravaganza, with a lineup that is sure to appeal to both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience these extraordinary performances.