Leonardo’s Prophecies (2025) is a musical exploration of four prophecies written by Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519). These ‘prophecies’ are often vague, ambiguous and display a wide range of da Vinci’s interests. The four that this piece explores contain references to religion and death. Leonarda da Vinci often worked on religious figures and events (The Last Supper) and for the Roman Catholic Church, but these ‘prophecies’ draw on his philosophical and humanist leanings.

I. Of the Avaricious

Many there will be who with the utmost zeal and solicitude will pursue furiously that which has always filled them with awe, not knowing its evil nature.

II. Of the Worshipping of Pictures of Saints

Men shall speak with men who shall not hear them; their eyes shall be open and they shall not see; they will speak to them and there shall be no reply; they will ask pardon from one who has ears and does not hear; they will offer light to one who is blind, and to the deaf they will appeal with loud clamour.

III. Of Books Which Inculcate Precepts

Bodies without souls shall by their sayings supply precepts which shall help us to die well.

IV. Of the Mouth of Man Which Is a Tomb

There shall come forth loud noises out of the tombs of those who have died by an evil and violent death.