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. Among them were A. Scarlatti, Corelli, Stradella, and Pasquini—all composers whose music remains to this day among the most innovative and expressive works of the Italian Baroque. 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 1626 in Stockholm and died in 1689 in Rome, is worthy of a TV series. Her father, King Gustav II Adolf, the savior of the Protestants, fell in the Thirty Years’ War in 1632. Although Christina was only 6 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 a ruler, she was deeply respected as a skilled politician and recognized for her knowledge of philosophy, art, and science. But after just ten years, in 1654—at only 28 years old—she abdicated the throne, left Sweden, rode through Denmark disguised as a man to Germany and the Netherlands, before traveling on to Innsbruck. There she converted to Catholicism and eventually ended up in Italy, where she was welcomed as a heroine and carried through the streets of Rome on a golden chair designed by Bernini.
The concert traces Kristina’s life journey, from Stockholm through a dramatic journey across Europe to Rome, and along the way we hear some of the wonderful music she encountered and inspired.
Listen to a sample of the music here.
Watch the concert trailer here.