Legrenzi: Dies Irae - Sonate a quattro viole - Motetti

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse musical landscape of Giovanni Legrenzi's "Legrenzi: Dies Irae - Sonate a quattro viole - Motetti," released on January 1, 2001, under the Ricercar label. This album offers a captivating journey through the works of the Italian Baroque composer, showcasing his mastery of both sacred and instrumental music.

The album opens with the "Sonata sesta a quatro viole da gamba," a piece that exemplifies Legrenzi's skill in composing for strings, followed by the profound and dramatic "Prosa pro mortuis, Dies Irae." This extended work is a setting of the Latin text of the Dies Irae, the sequence from the Roman Catholic Requiem Mass, and is divided into nineteen sections, each exploring different facets of the text's themes of judgment and redemption. The album also includes the intricate "Ricercar del secondo tono," a contrapuntal tour de force, and the serene "Angelorum ad convivia," a motet that highlights Legrenzi's lyrical gifts.

The "Sonata quinta a quatro viole da gamba" closes the album, offering a contrast to the earlier sonata with its own unique blend of contemplative and lively movements. The album concludes with the poignant "Suspiro Domine," a motet that leaves a lasting impression.

With a duration of 54 minutes, this album is a testament to Legrenzi's enduring influence and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer eager to explore this rich period, this album promises a rewarding listening experience.