Cantar Lontano is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with its unique sound and style for over two decades. Founded in 1999 by Marco Mencoboni, the ensemble has become one of the most respected and sought-after groups in the world of early music. The ensemble's name, Cantar Lontano, means "to sing from afar" in Italian, and it reflects the group's mission to bring the music of the past to life in a way that is both authentic and accessible to modern audiences. The ensemble is known for its innovative programming, which combines traditional repertoire with lesser-known works and contemporary compositions. Cantar Lontano is made up of a core group of musicians, including Marco Mencoboni on harpsichord and organ, Giuseppe Maletto on lute and theorbo, and Francesca Cassinari on soprano. The ensemble also collaborates with a wide range of guest artists, including instrumentalists, singers, and dancers, to create unique and dynamic performances. Over the years, Cantar Lontano has performed at some of the most prestigious venues and festivals around the world, including the Salzburg Festival, the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Festival Oude Muziek in Utrecht. The ensemble has also released numerous recordings, many of which have received critical acclaim and awards. One of the highlights of Cantar Lontano's career was its performance of Monteverdi's Vespers of 1610 at the Salzburg Festival in 2006. The ensemble's interpretation of this monumental work was praised for its clarity, precision, and emotional depth, and it cemented Cantar Lontano's reputation as one of the leading interpreters of early music. Another notable performance by Cantar Lontano was its collaboration with the French dance company Compagnie Montalvo-Hervieu on the production of "Orfeo," a multimedia interpretation of the Orpheus myth. This production, which combined music, dance, and video projections, was hailed as a groundbreaking work of art that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the realm of early music performance. Cantar Lontano has also been recognized for its contributions to the world of early music with numerous awards and honors. In 2003, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Premio Abbiati, the highest honor in Italian classical music, for its recording of the music of Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. The ensemble has also received the Diapason d'Or, the Choc de Classica, and the Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik, among other awards. In addition to its performances and recordings, Cantar Lontano is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly conducts workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, and it has developed a number of educational programs for schools and community groups. Through these efforts, Cantar Lontano is helping to ensure that the music of the past continues to inspire and enrich the lives of people today and in the future. In conclusion, Cantar Lontano is a remarkable ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of early music. With its innovative programming, exceptional musicianship, and commitment to education and outreach, the ensemble has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading interpreters of early music today.

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