Fairest Isle Festival

Embark on a musical journey back in time at the Fairest Isle Festival on the captivating Isle of Wight. Bathe in the opulence of a Venetian soundworld with voices and early instruments from the world’s top performers - on an island itself steeped in rich history.

Experience the breathtaking power of Monteverdi’s 1610 Vespers performed by experts I Fagiolini (on their 40th anniversary) and the English Cornett & Sackbut Ensemble: a dramatic Venetian soundworld of early instruments alongside intimate almost operatic miniatures.

From the same century but a different world, darker-hewn English music by Dowland and Purcell, memorably brought to life by soprano Ruby Hughes and lutenist Sergio Bucheli. Tenor Nicholas Mulroy joins the festival with his band for South American programme ‘Havana Nights’ after a talk/tasting by TED Talk specialist Sarah Hyndman on Gin and the Senses. Take part in the ‘Come & Sing’ - other music by Monteverdi led by Artistic Director Robert Hollingworth with baroque violins and theorbo and another workshop ‘Come & Play Baroque Hits!’

Gain insights into the Island with two heritage talks and tours of the Dinosaur Isle and Brading Roman Villa with lovely short recitals in the spaces from festival artists and Phantasia. And branch out from the Baroque and learn to sing broadside ballads in A Drop of Gin with Vivien Ellis!