Founded in 2009 by British early music scholar and performer Erin Headley, Atalante was formed with the purpose of bringing to life the staged vocal music of 17th century Italy through immersive concert hall experiences they call musica illuminata: staged narrative scenes based on images from antiquity portrayed as Baroque art (please see attachment). Drawing upon repertoire long tucked away in the Vatican library, their stunning performances feature unparalleled musicianship, beautiful sets, and elaborate costumes that draw audiences into the compelling cultural and musical world of the 17th century. Since their acclaimed 2009 debut at the Southbank Centre in London, Atalante has released four recordings featuring music by Luigi Rossi, Marco Marazzoli, Giacomo Carissimi, and Alessandro Stradella, and they have received support from the Arts and Humanities Research Council of Great Britain. Atalante is named in honor of Leonardo da Vinci’s friend and pupil Atalante Migliorotti, the inventor of Headley’s signature instrument, the lirone.
