Pinchgut’s new short film series, Seconda Prattica: the birth of opera, showcases a selection of musical pieces from the first half of the 17th century. The term "seconda prattica" was used in Italy at the time to distinguish the renaissance polyphonic style (prima prattica) from the baroque style which followed. Seconda prattica was considered to be a new way of writing vocal music and was the language of opera, then in its infancy.

We are thrilled to present the first instalment in our short film series here for you to enjoy.

Lamento della ninfa
Eighth book of Madrigals
Claudio Monteverdi (c1620)

Pinchgut Opera

Taryn Fiebig soprano
Eric Peterson tenor
David Greco baritone
Mark Donnelly bass
Erin Helyard harpsichord, chamber organ
Simon MartynEllis theorbo

Constantine Costi Director
Emma Elias Cinematography
Zac Hardaker Gaffer/Colourist
Richard Hundy Sound engineer
Sarah de Possesse Editor
Carey Beebe Harpsichord technician

Filmed at The Church in Alexandria
With special thanks to Judith Neilson and Phoenix Central Park

Seconda Prattica is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.