News

Titled "'... Posee todos los primores de la música, en cuanto ciencia, y en cuanto arte": As actividades musicais de D. Maria Bárbara de Bragança, infanta de Portugal e rainha de Espanha" (in English, "The Musical Activities of Maria Bárbara of Braganza, Infanta of Portugal and Queen of Spain"), this article aims to present the multiple aspects of music in the daily life of Maria Bárbara of Braganza (1711-1758), as Infanta of Portugal, Princess of Asturias and Queen of Spain, contextualising them in the scope of etiquette and cultural practices of 18th century European courts, as well as reflecting on her actions and legacy in the light of recent studies in the field of musicology and cultural history. Aspects such as her education, musical activities linked to the monarchy, her role as a performer, composer and collector of books, scores and art works are discussed, as well as some of the main links in the wide network of contacts she established and which contributed to projecting her image internationally as a protector of music and musicians. Studying her trajectory highlights the importance of women in the musical and cultural practices of European monarchies. 

The article is available on open access.