O BLIND WORLD (O CIECHO MONDO!)

Following its legacy of giving New York premieres to the world’s elite ensembles, MB1800 presents La Morra from Basel, Switzerland to close our 49th season. Under the joint artistic leadership of Corina Marti and Michał Gondko, La Morra is reputed for the evocative and thoroughly researched programming, as well as interpretations that “never fail to keep the listener’s attention alive” (Gramophone).

The courts of late medieval Europe regularly saw erotic passion intermingle with political intrigue. Skilled musicians labored at the intersection of secular and ecclesiastical powers, employing their art in service of their patron’s public image. Access to the private sphere of the rulers often entangled them in secrets, plots and espionage. Amidst the game, they sung the praise of their lords and of unrequited love and betrayal, yet also expressed hope for their own salvation. Centuries later, La Morra makes their voices audible again.

Featuring composers Jacopo da Bologna, Machaut, le Cuvelier, Radomski, Tourout, Frudencz, and Don Paolo da Firenze.