In this edition of Voices of Passion, we make a musical journey through time. Five generations of composers shaped the polyphonic music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, putting the Low Countries firmly on the map as the cradle of polyphony.

As one of the pioneers of Franco-Flemish polyphony, Guillaume Du Fay stood at the foundation of this art form that would dominate the musical scene in Europe for centuries. With the same curiosity and ambition that characterised the great artists of his time, he travelled to Italy, bringing the music of the Low Countries over the Alps.

There, he set the tone for the next four generations. From the most important European courts and religious institutions, great masters such as Johannes Ockeghem, Josquin des Prez, Antoine Busnoys and Jacob Obrecht determined the musical trends of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Their music is performed during Voices of Passion as recorded in the precious prints or centuries-old manuscripts in which the repertoire was handed down. These were often commissioned by prominent patrons such as Margaret of Austria, who played a key role in the development of numerous masterpieces with their love of the arts.

Discover in Voices of Passion 2026 a selection of the music that captivated Europe for centuries; a path that stretches along various musical hubs from the Franco-Flemish school to the refined clarity of the late Renaissance with Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, at the moment when the musical centre of innovation was shifting to Italy.

Leuven and polyphony have been intertwined for many years. Together with the Alamire Foundation, 30CC is highlighting this tradition and current knowledge and performance practice during the Voices of Passion festival.

co-production Alamire Foundation & 30CC