Caldara: Morte e sepoltura di Cristo

Album Description

Dive into the profound and reflective world of Antonio Caldara's "Morte e sepoltura di Cristo," a masterful oratorio composed for the Lenten season in 1724. This two-part oratorio, recorded in 2015 by Glossa, offers a deeply moving exploration of the Passion and burial of Christ, featuring a series of poignant reflections that resonate with timeless spiritual depth. The album spans over two hours, presenting a rich tapestry of musical expressions that include arias, recitatives, and choruses, all beautifully performed by an ensemble of talented vocalists and the renowned Europa Galante orchestra, under the direction of Fabio Biondi.

The tracklist is a journey through the sorrow and triumph of Christ's final moments, beginning with the haunting "Laboravi in gemitu meo" and culminating in the serene "La pienezza de' tempi." Highlights include the dramatic arias "È morto il mio Giesù" and "Lasciami, eterno Amante," as well as the stirring choruses "Ecco svelati" and "Vedove madri." The album also features instrumental works by Caldara, such as the "Sonata in G Minor, K. 347" and "Sonata for Strings in E-Flat Major, RV 130 'Al Santo Sepolcro,'" adding layers of musical richness to the overall experience.

Caldara's "Morte e sepoltura di Cristo" is a testament to his compositional genius and his ability to convey the profoundest of human experiences through music. This recording, with its stellar cast and meticulous attention to historical performance practices, offers a captivating glimpse into the Baroque oratorio tradition and the enduring power of sacred music.

31 maart 2015

2015 Glossa

About Antonio Caldara

Antonio Caldara, born around 1670 in Venice, was a prolific and versatile Italian Baroque composer whose musical journey took him across Europe, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. With over 70 operas and 30 oratorios to his credit, Caldara's compositions reflect his extensive travels and collaborations with notable librettists like Pietro Metastasio. His unique approach to incorporating choral forces in his operas set him apart from his contemporaries. Caldara's musical prowess earned him favor with the Habsburg dynasty, making him a celebrated figure in the European music scene. His works, ranging from dramatic oratorios to intricate motets, continue to captivate audiences with their rich emotional depth and technical brilliance. Whether exploring his vocal masterpieces or instrumental compositions, delving into Antonio Caldara's music is an immersive experience that transports you to the opulent courts and sacred spaces of the Baroque era.