In the 18th century, Venice’s figlie di coro was widely regarded as the best orchestra in the republic. It was comprised of girls from the Ospedale della Pietà, an orphanage established by wealthy individuals and run by nuns. Unwanted babies – those that had escaped being drowned – were “posted” through a tiny hole in the orphanage’s wall. They were given shelter and a musical education, as well as enduring gruelling domestic work, before they were married off or took the veil.
However, a talented few joined the orchestra and performed in churches and private houses, earning money for the orphanage. Despite their skill, members of the orchestra often had to play behind screens because they were disfigured – scarred from the pox or missing eyes and toes. Antonio Vivaldi served as violin director at the orphanage from 1703 to 1715. Anna Maria, a violin prodigy at the tender age of eight, became his star pupil.
