Pergolesi: Stabat Mater / Salve Regina in C Minor

This album presents a captivating exploration of two of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi's most renowned sacred choral works, the "Stabat Mater" and the "Salve Regina in C Minor." Composed in the Baroque style, these pieces showcase Pergolesi's mastery of melody and harmony, offering a profound and moving musical experience.

The "Stabat Mater" is a poignant setting of the Latin hymn that meditates on the sorrow of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus. Pergolesi's composition, written in 1736, is notable for its expressive vocal lines and delicate orchestration, creating a sense of intimacy and reflection. The album features all twelve movements of this powerful work, from the opening "Stabat mater dolorosa" to the final "Quando corpus morietur."

Complementing the "Stabat Mater" is Pergolesi's "Salve Regina in C Minor," a devotional hymn to the Virgin Mary. This piece, also known as the "Hail, Holy Queen," is a beautiful example of Pergolesi's ability to convey deep spiritual sentiment through music. The album includes all five movements of this serene and contemplative work.

The performances on this album are brought to life by the Cologne Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Helmut Müller-Brühl, with soloists Jörg Waschinski and Michael Chance. Their interpretations bring out the subtlety and depth of Pergolesi's compositions, making this recording a standout in the Baroque choral repertoire.

Released in 2006 by Naxos, this album captures the essence of Pergolesi's sacred music, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. With a total duration of 57 minutes, it is an excellent addition to any classical music collection, offering a blend of historical significance and musical beauty.

Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, born in the picturesque town of Iesi, Italy, in 1710, was a prodigious composer, violinist, and organist whose brief yet impactful career left an indelible mark on the Baroque era. Despite his tragically short life, ending at just 26 years old in 1736, Pergolesi's compositions continue to resonate with audiences and musicians alike. His most celebrated works, the comic opera "La serva padrona" and the deeply moving "Stabat Mater," showcase his versatility and mastery of both secular and sacred music. Pergolesi's influence extended far beyond Italy, playing a significant role in the Querelle des Bouffons, a musical debate that swept through Europe. His compositions, characterized by their emotional depth and technical brilliance, continue to inspire and captivate, securing his place as one of the greatest Italian musicians of the 18th century.