Fascinating Works by Francesco Landini
Experience the enchanting sounds of the medieval period through the musical genius of Francesco Landini, a renowned Italian composer, organist, and poet of the 14th Century. Born in Fiesole or Florence to a painter in Giotto’s circle, Landini lost his sight as a child due to smallpox. This blindness redirected his talents from painting to music, where he excelled as a composer, organist, organ builder, singer, poet, and even instrument inventor. His works are often featured in acclaimed albums such as "Delectatio angeli: Medieval Music of Love, Longing & Lament," "A Song for Francesca: Music in Italy, 1330–1430," and "The Garden of Zephirus: Courtly Songs of the Early 15th Century"—all of which explore the emotionally rich repertoire of the Italian Trecento period.
Life and Career Highlights
Landini's musical prowess and capacity for improvisation were widely recognized. He was crowned with a laurel wreath after winning a poetical contest in Venice in 1364. He was depicted in both art and his tombstone holding a portative organ, the symbol of his virtuosity.
Signature Musical Style and Innovations
Landini’s works are primarily secular and dominated by the ballata—a lyrical and dance-like form—composed mostly for two or three voices. He also contributed madrigals, a virelai, and a single caccia to the Italian repertoire. A unique feature of his music is the use of the "Landini cadence", a melodic formula in which the top voice moves down to the leading tone before leaping up to the tonic—a signature that became influential across both Italian and French music at the end of the 14th and start of the 15th centuries.
Major Contributions and Legacy
Landini’s surviving oeuvre comprises about 140 ballate, 12 madrigals, 1 caccia, and 1 virelai. His music is preserved in important medieval sources like the Squarcialupi Codex, where he is the most represented composer.
Rediscovering Landini's Works
In our program, 'Delectatio angeli: Medieval Music of Love, Longing & Lament,' we delve into Landini's powerful performances that tug at the heartstrings of audiences. His delicate compositions and musical prowess illuminate a time when chivalry, romance, and longing took center stage in art and music.
Our next feature, 'A Song for Francesca: Music in Italy, 1330-1430', will take listeners on an auditory journey through the prime of Landini's creativity, bringing to life the exciting and transformative 14th century Florence era through artful song compositions.
In 'The Garden of Zephirus: Courtly Songs of the Early 15th Century', we explore the beautiful intricacy of courtly love songs, showcasing the talent and virtuosity of Landini. These songs, filled with deep emotions and layered harmonies, take us into the vibrant and cultured world of the early 15th Century.
Featuring the stellar performances of Catherine Bott, Pavlo Beznosiuk, Mark Levy, and Gothic Voices directed by Christopher Page, this event will be a feast for the ears. With their experienced interpretations and sheer talent, these performers bring to life Landini's fascinating works from a bygone era.
Immerse yourself in the captivating universe of Francesco Landini brought to you by STAGE+. Rediscover the musical treasures of a lost world that still resonates in the hearts of classical music enthusiasts worldwide.