The ensemble takes its name from the diffused compositional process of the sixteenth century that flourished throughout the 1500s and had its most mature synthesis with G. Frescobaldi (1583-1643) before merging into the genre of the Fuga. Later, also J. S. Bach (1685-1750), who even gave to many of his Fughe the character of an ancient Ricercare, created two real ones in his "Offerta Musicale".

The group, founded by Serena Bellini (flute) and Francesco Tomasi (theorbo, liute and baroque guitar) actually is a collective of various musicians and singers directed by Francesco Tomasi. Since 2007 the members of Ricercare Antico are constantly engaged in an intense concert activity in Italy and Europe with the most prestigious ensembles of ancient music including: "Concerto Italiano", the "Freiburger Barockorchester", "Cappella Mediterranea", "Auser Musici", "L'Estravagante", "Arte Musica", "La Venexiana", "Pera Ensemble".

In 2008 the ensemble won the Audience's Award at the "Biagio Marini Wettbewerb" international competition in Neuburg an der Donau (Germany). Ricercare Antico is particularly involved in the revalue and sound reconstruction of ancient and baroque music, according to the musical praxis of the repertoire and a personal innovative approach. Recent projects include the recording of the "Giulio Romano", CD for "Brilliant Classics" entirely dedicated to the music of Giulio Caccini, for the 400th Anniversary of the death. Among the future projects, a monographic program on G.G. Kapsberger entitled "Il tedesco della tiorba" and another one focused on the early compositions by B. Marini. Recent projects include the recording of the Giulio Romano CD for the label "Brilliant Classics" entirely dedicated to the music of Giulio Caccin, for the 400th Anniversary of Death. Among the future projects, a monographic program on Kapsberger entitled "Il todesco della tiorba".