Boccherini: Une nuit à Madrid

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Luigi Boccherini with "Une nuit à Madrid," a captivating collection of quintets that showcase the composer's genius and innovation. This album, released on November 6, 2020, by the esteemed label Mirare, features a stunning array of flute and guitar quintets that highlight Boccherini's mastery of form and expression.

The ensemble Les Ombres pays tribute to Boccherini, a composer known for his audacious spirit and insatiable curiosity. Born in Italy, Boccherini's life was marked by extensive travel, which greatly influenced his music. His contributions to the string quartet and quintet forms are legendary, earning him the title "the father of the string quartet."

"Une nuit à Madrid" spans a generous 64 minutes and includes 14 tracks, each a testament to Boccherini's unique voice. The album opens with the Flute Quintet in G Minor, Op. 19 No. 2, and traverses a range of moods and tempos, from the lively "Allegro e con un poco di moto" to the serene "Adagio" and the spirited "Fandango." Each piece is performed with exquisite precision and sensitivity, bringing Boccherini's compositions to life in vivid detail.

Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, "Une nuit à Madrid" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's diverse repertoire and impeccable performances make it a standout addition to any music collection.

Luigi Boccherini, born in Lucca, Italy, in 1743, was a virtuoso cellist and a prolific composer whose music bridged the gap between the Baroque and Classical eras. Hailing from a family of artists, Boccherini's musical journey took him across Europe, where he served various royal patrons and left an indelible mark on the world of chamber music. His compositions, characterized by their charming, light, and optimistic Rococo style, often reflect the influence of Spanish guitar traditions, a testament to his extensive time spent in Spain.

Boccherini is perhaps best known for his string quintets and guitar quintets, which showcased his innovative approach to harmony and form. His Cello Concerto in B flat major, though long known in an altered version, has been restored to its original brilliance, offering a glimpse into his virtuosic prowess on the instrument. Beyond his instrumental works, Boccherini also composed vocal pieces, including the zarzuela "Clementina," his sole complete stage work.

Throughout his career, Boccherini's music retained a courtly and galante style, even as he matured away from the major European musical centers. His influence on the development of the string quartet and quintet is undeniable, and his works continue to captivate audiences with their elegance and charm. Despite facing poverty in his later years, Boccherini's legacy endures through his extensive and beautifully crafted musical output, which includes symphonies, chamber works, and vocal compositions.