Following our visit to the V&A exhibition last October, we further explored the history of Italian opera. It has dominated the art form for centuries and boasts its most famous composers and singers as well as its most beloved artists. Our guest lecturer Patrick Bade provided a feast of gorgeous sounds, stories and images.

Patrick Bade is one of London's most sought-after lecturers on art and opera. He has worked for the National Gallery, British Museum, V&A, Royal Opera House and Royal Academy of Arts, contributed to BBC Radio 3, Radio 4 and Classic FM, and is an author of several books, including his latest Music Wars: 1937-1945.