The programme focuses on the work of Adrian Willaert and his 1559 publication Musica Nova, the manuscript of which was at one time owned by the soprano Polissena Pecorina, to whom Willaert dedicated a madrigal.

Though born in the Low Countries, Willaert was so taken to the heart of the Venetians that his name became synonymous with La Serenissima itself. His music is subtle, perhaps understated, and ravishingly beautiful. Willaert's magnum opus Musica Nova was premiered by the famous soprano Polissima Pecorina; for us Jennie Cassidy steps into la Pecorina's shoes, joined by viol consort, recorders and lute, in a programme including madrigals, frottole, dances and ricercars from the private chambers of 16th-century Venice.