Contratenore

Album Description

Dive into the rich history of early Baroque music with Giulio Caccini's "Contratenore," a captivating album released on November 10, 2011, under the label Evandro Oliva. This 47-minute collection showcases the genius of Giulio Caccini, a pioneering composer and singer who significantly influenced the development of monody, a style that emphasized solo singing with instrumental accompaniment.

The album is a beautiful blend of sacred and secular works, featuring iconic pieces such as Caccini's own "Ave Maria," which exemplifies the shift from complex polyphony to the more intimate monodic style. Other highlights include the enchanting "An die Musik" by Franz Schubert and the timeless "Stabat Mater Dolorosa," a poignant reflection on the sorrow of the Virgin Mary. The album also includes several Italian art songs, or arias, that offer a glimpse into the lyrical beauty and expressive power of Caccini's compositions.

Caccini, known for his innovative approach to music and text, proposed a new relationship between the two in his essay prefacing "Le Nuove Musiche" in 1602. This album is a testament to his enduring legacy, featuring works that have resonated with audiences for centuries. Whether you're a fan of opera, early music, or simply appreciate the beauty of the human voice, "Contratenore" offers a compelling journey through the world of Giulio Caccini.

10 november 2011

2020 Evandro Oliva

About Giulio Caccini

Giulio Romolo Caccini was a multifaceted Italian composer, singer, instrumentalist, and teacher who played a pivotal role in the transition from the late Renaissance to the early Baroque era. Born in 1551, Caccini's musical journey began at the age of 13 when he joined the court of the de' Medici family in Florence, quickly establishing himself as a gifted performer. He is renowned as one of the founders of the opera genre and the inventor of monody, a solo vocal style that emphasized expressive and dramatic effects, setting the stage for the Baroque era.

Caccini's influence extended beyond his compositions; he was also a prolific writer, publishing works that detailed his innovative vocal techniques. His 1602 collection, "Le nuove musiche," featured solo songs with continuo accompaniment, showcasing his groundbreaking approach to music. As a member of the Florentine Camerata, Caccini was at the heart of musical innovations, contributing to the extravagant intermedii performed during Medici celebrations. His legacy endures through his daughters, Francesca Caccini, a composer, and Settimia Caccini, a singer, both of whom carried on his musical heritage. Caccini's contributions to opera and monody continue to inspire, making him a cornerstone of early Baroque music.