COLLEGIUM  VOCAL  CRETE  SENESI
In  2001,  together  with  musicians  from  Collegium  Vocale  Gent  and  some  friends-patrons,  including  honorary  chairman  Carol van  Wonterghem,  the  Belgian  conductor  and  Italy  enthusiast  Philippe  Herreweghe  founded  the                                                                  “Accademia  delle  Crete Senesi”.
In  response  to  the  busy  concert  practice  during  the  season,  this  annual  summer  festival  south  of  Siena  has  grown  in to  an atmospheric  and  inspiring  meeting  place  for  musicians  and  audiences.
The concerts take place in an array of smaller but exquisitely beautiful churches, abbeys, and pievi that have been thoughtfully selected for their exceptional acoustics, perfectly suited for the captivating repertoire on the program. Nestled in idyllic settings such as Santo Stefano (Castelmuzio), Sant'Anna in Camprena (Pienza), or San Francesco (Asciano), the Crete Senesi region unfolds its mesmerizing charm, offering both performers and attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in one of Europe's most stunning and well-preserved areas. Situated in proximity to renowned cities like Florence, Siena, Montepulciano, and Montalcino, and nestled amidst one of Italy's most esteemed wine regions, the festival provides an extraordinary gateway to this enchanted landscape.

The festival's performances boast an international caliber, seamlessly uniting the allure of breathtaking landscapes with a cultural heritage tracing back to the Etruscans, rendering it a truly exceptional gathering for audiences from Italy and beyond. Alongside showcasing renowned soloists and accomplished musicians from their respective ensembles, Collegium Vocale Crete Senesi ardently nurtures emerging talent, reflecting their commitment to a diverse, yet unwaveringly refined program that spans five centuries of music, including contemporary compositions approached with innovation and vitality.