Antonio Vivaldi (1678–1741) was an Italian composer, violinist, and priest, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the Baroque era. Born in Venice, Vivaldi was nicknamed “Il Prete Rosso” (The Red Priest) because of his red hair and clerical background. Although he was ordained as a priest, his true vocation was music. He spent much of his life working at the Ospedale della Pietà, a Venetian orphanage for girls, where he composed and directed music, training many talented young musicians.

Vivaldi’s greatest legacy lies in his instrumental concertos, especially those with the violin. Each concerto displays his remarkable understanding of the instrument’s expressive and technical capabilities. His concertos typically follow the three-movement structure (fast–slow–fast) that became standard in later classical music. They are characterised by brilliant virtuosity, rhythmic vitality, and a clear sense of form and contrast between soloist and orchestra.

Among his violin concertos, The Four Seasons (Le quattro stagioni) stands out as his most famous and innovative work. Composed around 1723 and published in 1725, this set of four concertos – Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter – is a vivid example of early programme music. Each concerto is accompanied by a sonnet that describes natural scenes and human emotions associated with the seasons. Through musical imagery such as bird calls, thunderstorms, harvest dances, and icy winds, Vivaldi masterfully translates the poetry into sound.

Vivaldi’s concertos influenced many later composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach, who transcribed several of them. Although his music fell out of favour after his death, the 20th century brought a revival of interest, restoring Vivaldi’s reputation as a master of melody, colour, and instrumental brilliance. Today, his concertos remain central to the Baroque repertoire and beloved by performers and audiences worldwide.

Played by Italian violinist Federico Guglielmo and his L’Arte dell’arco. The press has been unanimous in its praise:

“a definitive recording, bravo!” – Diapason

“infectious joy, improvisatory flair and instinct, this is music making minted in the moment” – BBC Radio 3

“They know the secret language of Vivaldi...” – Diapason