The XII Early Music Festival Ceciliana, organized by the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, is set to take place over four days, celebrating Italian music. The festival will commence with a concert titled "Music from Queen Christina's Court" at EMTA's Chamber Hall, honoring the 400th anniversary of the birth of Queen Christina of Sweden. Renowned Finnish baroque violinist Aira Maria Lehtipuu and harpsichordist Imbi Tarum will perform works by composers such as Lonati, Stradella, Corelli, and Baltzar, highlighting the rich cultural intersections of the era.

On Friday, March 20, the audience will embark on a musical journey through Italy and France with the concert "A Journey with Burney through Italy and France," dedicated to the 300th anniversary of the Enlightenment-era musicologist and traveler Charles Burney. Performer Lembit Orgse will feature keyboard music from the time, linked to Burney's European travels in 1770, which included stops in Paris, Venice, Bologna, Rome, and Naples. This concert promises to offer a fascinating insight into the musical landscapes encountered by Burney.

The festival illustrates Estonia's commitment to cultural heritage and the revival of early music, fostering appreciation for historical compositions while showcasing talent from both local and international artists. The focus on Italian music not only commemorates significant historical figures but also enriches the cultural fabric of Estonia by connecting it with broader European musical traditions.