Concerto Copenhagen presents music inspired by Queen Christina
In 1656, Queen Christina of Sweden founded the Arcadia Academy in Rome. Its members discussed literature, art, science, and music, and many composers were part of Christina's academy. These included A. Scarlatti, Corelli, Stradella, and Pasquini—all composers whose music is still considered some of the most innovative and expressive of the Italian Baroque period. For example, Corelli's entire Opus 1, consisting of 12 trio sonatas, is dedicated to Queen Christina.
The story of Queen Christina of Sweden, born in Stockholm in 1626 and died in Rome in 1689, is worthy of a television series. Her father, King Gustav II Adolf, savior of the Protestants, fell in the Thirty Years' War in 1632. Although Christina was only six years old at the time, she was given the title of Queen of Sweden. However, she did not become the reigning queen until 1644. As regent, she was deeply respected as a skilled politician and recognised for her knowledge of philosophy, art and science. But after only ten years, in 1654 – at the age of just 28 – she abdicated the throne, left Sweden, rode through Denmark disguised as a man to Germany and the Netherlands, before travelling on to Innsbruck. Here she converted to Catholicism and eventually ended up in Italy, where she was welcomed as a heroine and carried on a golden chair, designed by Bernini, through the streets of Rome.
The concert follows Kristina's life journey, from Stockholm via her dramatic journey through Europe to Rome, and along the way we hear some of the fantastic music she encountered and inspired.
Listen to a sample of the music here.
Watch the trailer for the concert here.