Abendmusik, New York’s period instrument string band, presents a special performance of Antonio Vivaldi’s first collection of printed concerti for 1, 2, and 4 violins: L’estro armonico, Op. 3. Published in Amsterdam in 1711, these works are believed to have been performed by the all-female orchestra of the Ospedale della Pietà in Venice.

In a tribute to that history, Abendmusik performs this program with an all-female period instrument ensemble. The concert honors the legacy of women in music—specifically Anna Maria della Pietà, the 18th-century violinist, composer, and teacher who was Vivaldi's premier student at the Ospedale.

The program, curated by Vita Wallace, features a selection of concerti from the collection (Nos. 1, 2, 6, 7, 9, and 11). Dr. Alison Smith VC ’77 P ’13, historian of early modern Italy and professor emeritus at Wagner College, will offer a short pre-concert talk on Anna Maria and the cultural life of women in 18th-century Italian convents.

Musicians

• Violins: Claire Smith Bermingham, Tatiana Chulochnikova, Aisslinn Nosky, Theresa Salomon
• Violas: Margrét Hjaltested, Epongue Ekille
• Violoncello: Sarah Freiberg
• Violone: Patricia Ann Neelyy VC’ 75 P’18
• Harpsichord: Rebecca Pechefsky

This event is free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Vassar Music Department. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact the Office of Campus Activities at (845) 437-5370.