The metaphorical world of flowers and gardens was especially potent in the 17th century. With links to both Greco-Roman mythology and Christian symbolism, many individual flowers are linked in very specific ways with life’s major themes of birth, love, fecundity, death, mourning, and rebirth.
 
Norwich Baroque is joined by soprano Sarahjane Stephen for a programme inspired by Rebecca Cypess’ marvellous research on flower-themed musical publications of the 17th century. At the heart of the programme is a nearly unknown, yet incredibly charismatic set of villanelle by lutenist Giovanni Girolamo Kapsberger (1580-1651), written in honour of the famous Barberini gardens of Rome. Nestled around these are vocal and instrumental pieces on the themes alluded to in each of the flower songs, with music of Cavalli, Merula, Castello, Purcell, and more.