Cristiano Contadin

Cristiano Contadin is an acclaimed Italian viola da gamba virtuoso and founder of the Opera Prima Ensemble, a chamber group dedicated to historically informed performances of Baroque and early music. Known for his "absolute mastery of the instrument," Contadin has earned wide recognition for his warm, elegant playing, notably on recordings like Michel Corrette’s *Les délices de la solitude*, which received praise from *Fanfare Magazine*. He has also collaborated with distinguished ensembles such as Il Suonar Parlante, whose album *Full of Color* won major awards including the Diapason d’Or and Choc du Monde de la Musique. His repertoire spans ancient music to contemporary compositions, and he has premiered works by modern composers as well as performed in significant events, like the Italian premiere of George Benjamin’s *Written on Skin* and the funeral ceremony of Umberto Eco.

In addition to performing, Contadin contributes to early music scholarship, having translated *The Early History of the Viol* into Italian. His recordings include extensive works by Handel, Graun, Dowland, Telemann, Cavalli, and others, showcasing his dedication to both solo and ensemble repertoire on the viol. Opera Prima, under his artistic direction, combines scholarly authenticity with vibrant musicianship, often collaborating with renowned artists like soprano Amanda Forsythe. Contadin's career merges technical virtuosity with an enthusiastic passion for the viol and Baroque chamber music, securing his reputation as one of the leading figures in his field today.

Genres

Chamber Music

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Baroque

Orchestral Music

Early Music

Historical Performance

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Latest Release

Handel: Italian Cantatas & Arias

George Frideric Handel•

Amanda Forsythe•

Opera Prima Ensemble•

Cristiano Contadin

Album - 32 Tracks - Released April 24, 2025