The Accademia degli Armonici, Florence (1768-1810). History of a musical and literary organization

Abstract

The Accademia degli Armonici, founded in Florence in 1768, associated both noblemen and businessmen of some literary or musical talent. This essay traces its history, focusing on its structure, principles, repertoire, musical combinations, and interpreters, after the discovery of unpublished constitutions, by-laws, and documents at the Florence State Archive and the Venice Conservatory Library, as well as after an extensive newspaper combing (Gazzetta Patria, then Gazzetta Toscana, and Gazzetta Universale). At least 132 music, poetry, and dancing veglie are registered. The image emerges of an organization well integrated in Florence cultural circles and in the historical and political context of the Leopold age, which it did not survive.