1968day.year
John Eliot Gardiner conducts Monteverdi's Vespro della Beata Vergine with the Monteverdi Choir at the Proms.
Conductor John Eliot Gardiner led a historic performance of Monteverdi's 'Vespro della Beata Vergine' with his Monteverdi Choir at the 1968 Proms.
On September 11, 1968, acclaimed British conductor John Eliot Gardiner brought Claudio Monteverdi's 'Vespro della Beata Vergine' to the Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms series. Performing with the Monteverdi Choir and a period-instrument orchestra, Gardiner's interpretation emphasized the work's early Baroque textures and expressive contrasts. The concert was hailed for its scholarly insight and vibrant musicality, setting a new standard for historically informed performances. Audience members and critics alike praised the clarity of voices and the authentic use of period instrumentation. This landmark event helped spark renewed interest in Monteverdi's sacred music and influenced Baroque performance practice for decades. Gardiner's leadership at the Proms solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in the early music revival.
John Eliot Gardiner
Vespro della Beata Vergine
Monteverdi Choir
Proms