Alessandro Scarlatti: Responsories for Holy Week - Holy Saturday - Alessandro Scarlatti

Immerse yourself in the profound and spiritual compositions of Alessandro Scarlatti with this exquisite collection of Responsories for Holy Week, released on March 9, 2018, by Deutsche Harmonia Mundi. This album captures the essence of Holy Saturday through a series of sacred vocal and organ works, each piece meticulously crafted to evoke the solemnity and reflection of the Easter season.

The album spans a duration of one hour and nine minutes, featuring a blend of mottetti (motets) and responsoria (responsories), interspersed with organ fugues. Alessandro Scarlatti's mastery of Baroque composition is evident in every track, from the hauntingly beautiful "Mottetto Intellige clamorem meum" to the powerful "Responsorium Recessit pastor noster." Each piece is performed with a depth of expression and technical brilliance that highlights the rich harmonic textures and contrapuntal intricacies characteristic of Scarlatti's style.

The album opens with the dramatic "Toccata per organo," setting the stage for the solemn and reflective mood that pervades the responsories. The motets, such as "Salvum fac populum tuum" and "Exurge Domine," showcase Scarlatti's ability to convey both the grandeur and intimacy of sacred text. The responsories, including "Plange quasi virgo" and "O vos omnes," are performed with a sense of urgency and pathos that underscores the liturgical significance of Holy Saturday.

The organ fugues, "Fuga del I Tono per organo," "Fuga del II Tono per organo," and "Fuga del III Tono per organo," provide moments of contemplative reflection, their complex polyphony offering a counterpoint to the vocal works. The album concludes with the poignant "Mottetto Miserere mei, Deus," a plea for mercy that resonates deeply with the themes of redemption and hope.

This album is a testament to Alessandro Scarlatti's enduring legacy as one of the most influential composers of the Baroque era. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Alessandro Scarlatti, born in Palermo in 1660, stands as one of the most influential figures in Baroque music, particularly renowned for his operatic works and chamber cantatas. Often hailed as the "Italian Orpheus," Scarlatti's compositions laid the groundwork for the Neapolitan school of opera, making him a pivotal figure in the development of classical harmony and the Italian overture. His prolific career spanned over a hundred operas, more than 600 cantatas, and numerous religious works, showcasing his versatility and innovation. Scarlatti's music, characterized by its vividness and singability, reflects his early struggles and relentless drive, making each piece a testament to his genius. His influence extended far beyond his time, inspiring composers like Mozart and leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.