The project brought together the musicians of Ensemble Matheus, one of the leading orchestras specialising in Baroque and Classical repertoire, and the young talents of the Stauffer String Ensemble in a single orchestral formation, offering the musicians of the Stauffer Academy a valuable artistic and professional experience within an international setting.
The programme celebrated Italy’s influence on European music through some of the most beloved works of the symphonic repertoire: the overture to Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, Schubert’s Overture in the Italian Style, the overture to Rossini’s La Cenerentola, the overture to Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and his celebrated Italian Symphony.
Under the direction of Jean-Christophe Spinosi, a conductor known for combining interpretative rigour with compelling energy, the two ensembles took audiences on a musical journey inspired by the grace, vitality and melodic richness of the Italian tradition, receiving a warm response from audiences at both festivals.
The tour once again highlights the international outlook of the Stauffer Academy and the value of its collaborations with leading European musical institutions, providing young musicians with concrete opportunities for artistic growth and the chance to work alongside internationally renowned professionals.
