Cappella Musicale Santa Maria In Campitelli is a classical music ensemble that has been active for over 400 years. The ensemble is based in Rome, Italy, and is known for its performances of sacred music. The ensemble was founded in the early 17th century by the Confraternity of Santa Maria in Campitelli, a religious organization in Rome. The Confraternity was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and had a special devotion to the image of the Madonna that was housed in the church of Santa Maria in Campitelli. The members of the Confraternity were also passionate about music and wanted to create a choir that could perform the sacred music that was being composed in Rome at the time. The first members of the ensemble were drawn from the Confraternity and were amateur singers. However, over time, the ensemble began to attract professional musicians and composers who were interested in working with the group. One of the most important composers associated with the ensemble was Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, who served as the maestro di cappella (music director) of the ensemble from 1555 to 1560. Over the centuries, the ensemble has undergone many changes, both in terms of its membership and its repertoire. However, it has always remained dedicated to the performance of sacred music, particularly the music of the Roman School, a group of composers who were active in Rome in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the ensemble is made up of professional singers and musicians who are dedicated to preserving the rich musical heritage of the Confraternity of Santa Maria in Campitelli. The ensemble performs regularly in the church of Santa Maria in Campitelli, as well as in other venues in Rome and around the world. One of the highlights of the ensemble's history was its performance at the canonization of St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1622. The ensemble performed a Mass composed by Palestrina in honor of the saint, and the performance was so well-received that the ensemble was invited to perform at the Vatican on several occasions. Another important moment in the ensemble's history was its performance at the Jubilee of 2000, which marked the beginning of the new millennium. The ensemble performed a series of concerts in Rome and was praised for its beautiful and moving performances. In addition to its performances, the ensemble has also received numerous awards and honors over the years. In 2010, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Premio Abbiati, which is given annually by the Italian music critics' association to the best musical ensemble in Italy. The ensemble was also awarded the Premio Roma, which is given by the city of Rome to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the cultural life of the city. Today, Cappella Musicale Santa Maria In Campitelli continues to be one of the most important ensembles in the world of sacred music. Its dedication to preserving the musical heritage of the Confraternity of Santa Maria in Campitelli has made it a beloved institution in Rome and beyond, and its beautiful performances continue to inspire audiences around the world.

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