Conducted by Ian Smith, Danesborough Chorus will be joined by Alina Orchestra with soloists from the Royal Academy of Music, Bella Hulbert (soprano), Eleanor Ninham (soprano), Helena Paish (mezzo soprano), Joseph Hancock (tenor) and Tom Butler (bass).

Scarlatti (1660–1725) and Vivaldi (1678–1741) were two giants of the Italian Baroque period, though their musical legacies offer a fascinating study in contrast and complement. Scarlatti was primarily a composer of vocal music, operating at the heart of the Neapolitan operatic tradition, while Vivaldi, though also an opera composer, is best known for revolutionising instrumental music, particularly the concerto.

Scarlatti composed the Mass for Saint Cecilia in 1720 for the Basilica Santa Cecilia, Rome. Considered to be the crowning achievement of all his church music, this piece provides a stylistic synthesis of the compositional possibilities of the early 18th century, in a score brimming with striking contrasts.

Hailing from Venice, Vivaldi was both a priest and a virtuoso violinist. He composed three settings of Psalm 110, Dixit Dominus. Tonight’s, RV 595, is in eleven movements for five soloists, five-part choir and orchestra. This setting is less well-known and more modest than the flamboyant RV 594, though its charms are no less endearing and its choral sonority no less compelling.

Completing the programme, Handel’s Concerto Grosso Op 3 No 2 is notable for its unique five-movement structure and its wonderfully varied orchestration. It exhibits the composer’s characteristic lively and inventive musical style, and features one of his most expressive orchestral slow movements. 

Tickets (all unreserved): £20 (centre pews), £15 (rear centre), £10 (aisle seats), £5 for students (all areas) are available by phoning Lynne on 01908 386796, or online at https://wegottickets.com/event/696438.

Neither Scarlatti’s St Cecilia Mass nor Vivaldi’s Dixit Dominus is often performed so this is a great opportunity to hear these two masterworks.  And, for a truly sparkling summer evening at Woburn, remember to bring strawberries and bubbly for the traditional extended interval on the lawns!