During a recent autumn tour to Florence, a group of musically inclined museum supporters had the opportunity to explore the city’s rich artistic and musical heritage.
Staying at a centrally located hotel, we were able to easily visit several Renaissance treasures on foot. Highlights included the spectacular private chapel of Palazzo Medici Riccardi, adorned with Benozzo Gozzoli’s exquisite frescoes depicting the Procession of the Magi. We enjoyed an exclusive backstage tour of Teatro Niccolini, the oldest theatre in Florence and among the first modern playhouses in Europe.
A scenic coach journey took us to Montalcino in the province of Siena, where we marvelled at a renowned harpsichord studio, celebrated for crafting high-quality instruments shipped worldwide. The day concluded with a fascinating masterclass on the region’s iconic Brunello wines, held in an atmospheric 13th-century castle. Our tour wrapped up with a private concert honouring Florentine Baroque composers, featuring performances on both harpsichord and violone, followed by a sumptuous dinner at one of Florence’s finest restaurants.