Pergolèse & Vivaldi: Stabat Mater pour deux castrats

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Baroque music with Samuel Mariño's captivating album, "Pergolèse & Vivaldi: Stabat Mater pour deux castrats." Released on March 12, 2021, under the prestigious Château de Versailles Spectacles label, this album is a stunning collaboration between Mariño and counter-tenor Filippo Mineccia, accompanied by the Orchestre de l'Opéra Royal and conductor Marie van Rhijn.

This 77-minute journey through the sacred and secular works of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi and Antonio Vivaldi is a testament to Mariño's exceptional artistry and the exquisite blend of voices and instruments. The album features a mix of arias, recitatives, and concertos, showcasing the incredible range and depth of the castrato voice, a rare and fascinating aspect of Baroque music history.

Highlights include the poignant "Stabat Mater" by Pergolesi, a deeply moving setting of the medieval poem that meditates on the sorrow of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus. Vivaldi's dramatic "In furore iustissimae irae" and the lively "Concerto for Violin, Oboe and Organ in C major" are also standout tracks, demonstrating the composers' unique styles and the ensemble's virtuosity.

Mariño's interpretation of these works is both sensitive and powerful, bringing a fresh perspective to these beloved pieces. The Orchestre de l'Opéra Royal provides a rich, resonant backdrop, with van Rhijn's conducting expertly balancing the voices and instruments. Mineccia's voice is a perfect complement to Mariño's, creating a hauntingly beautiful duet in the "Stabat Mater."

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Mariño's "Pergolèse & Vivaldi: Stabat Mater pour deux castrats" is a celebration of the Baroque era's musical genius and a testament to the enduring power of these timeless works.