Bologna and the Venetian School: 16th-Century Organ Itineraries"

From 7 to 10 September 2026, Bologna will become the capital of early music with a prestigious masterclass dedicated to Renaissance organs, focusing on the 16th-century Venetian school and its European influences. Under the guidance of Maestro Francesco Cera and renowned experts in the field, young organists from a variety of backgrounds will have the unique opportunity to study on priceless historical instruments, such as the famous organs by Lorenzo da Prato (1471) and Baldassarre Malamini (1596).

On Tuesday 8 September at 7.30 pm, the Basilica of San Petronio will also host a concert for two organs featuring Léon Berben and Francesco Cera, performing on the historic organs by Lorenzo da Prato (1471–75) and Baldassarre Malamini (1596). The programme spans music from the sixteenth to the early seventeenth century, featuring works by Giovanni and Andrea Gabrieli, Merulo, Sweelinck, Priuli and Frescobaldi.

This intensive journey through scholarship, art and culture will reach its climax on Thursday 10 September at 5.00 pm, with the evocative final concert by the students within the monumental setting of the Basilica of San Petronio, where the audience will be able to hear the finest works of the Renaissance repertoire brought back to life.