Monteverdi: Il combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda & Madrigals

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Claudio Monteverdi's masterful compositions with this captivating album, released on January 14, 2022, by Warner Classics. This collection showcases Monteverdi's genius through a selection of madrigals and his renowned dramatic scena, "Il combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda."

The album opens with a series of madrigals from Monteverdi's Seventh Book of Madrigals, "Concerto," including the evocative "Interrotte speranze" and the passionate "Eccomi pronta ai baci." These pieces highlight Monteverdi's ability to blend intricate vocal lines with profound emotional depth, making them timeless treasures of the classical repertoire.

The centerpiece of the album is Monteverdi's "Il combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda," a dramatic and intense work from his Eighth Book of Madrigals, "Guerrieri et amorosi." This three-person drama, set to a libretto from Tasso's epic poem "Gerusalemme liberata," is a vivid portrayal of a battle between the crusader Tancredi and the disguised warrior Clorinda. The work is a masterclass in Monteverdi's "concitato" style, characterized by its agitated and dramatic musical language. The album includes the full scena, from the opening "Sinfonia" to the climactic "Guerra" and the poignant final lines, "In queste voci languide."

With a duration of 43 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Monteverdi's contributions to the madrigal form and his pioneering work in early opera. The performances are brought to life by a talented ensemble, capturing the essence of Monteverdi's innovative and expressive style. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the works of one of the most influential composers of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods.