As this program will show, Italy is more than just Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. This program reflects the great variety in Italian forms and styles in the late 17th and earlier 18th centuries. The rules weren’t all too strict, and the terminology didn’t matter too much: the designation sinfonia, concerto, or concerto grosso did not necessarily define the character and structure of the pieces. Compositions could have no, one, or more soloists. Some are more dance-like and were mostly intended for private entertainment and celebrations. Others are more serious, often to be performed during (long) church services. In order to reflect this variety, we decided to include Torelli, Albinoni, Locatelli, and Durante: each of them very famous in their own time, but living in the shadow of Vivaldi and Corelli today. It is up to you to discover their quality and charm!