In October 1600, 'Euridice', an opera by Jacopo Peri, was performed for the first time in Florence, Italy. This significant milestone in musical history was held at the opulent Palazzo Pitti to celebrate the marriage of Henry IV of France to Maria de' Medici, a member of the powerful Medici family. The opera is based on the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, depicting Orpheus's descent into the underworld to retrieve his beloved wife. It marked a critical transition in the evolution of theatrical music, merging elements of drama with elaborate musical composition.

Peri's 'Euridice' introduced new vocal styles and orchestration techniques, influencing the structure of future operas. The use of recitative—sung speech that conveys the story's progression—was revolutionary, allowing for greater emotional expression and narrative clarity. This opera showcased the Baroque style's emotional intensity and complexity, which would dominate European music for the next century. Not only did this performance set a precedent for operas to follow, but it also reflected societal values, emphasizing the importance of love and the human condition through music.

The significance of 'Euridice' extends beyond its immediate impact, as it laid down the foundations for the opera genre, which would flourish through the works of later composers such as Monteverdi, Handel, and Vivaldi. The intertwining of music, drama, and physical performance in 'Euridice' exemplified the artistic aspirations of the Renaissance, marking a transition into a new era where the arts flourished. The operatic form continued to evolve, influencing countless productions, operas, and theatrical performances over the following centuries.