Scarlatti: Salve Regina / Pergolesi: Stabat Mater

This album presents a captivating collection of sacred choral works by two prominent Baroque composers, Alessandro Scarlatti and Giovanni Battista Pergolesi. Released in 1993 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, this recording offers a serene and reflective journey through the rich tapestry of Baroque vocal music.

The album opens with Alessandro Scarlatti's "Salve Regina" in F Minor, a beautiful and contemplative piece that showcases the elegance and depth of Scarlatti's compositional style. The second half of the album is dedicated to Pergolesi's renowned "Stabat Mater," a profound and moving work that highlights the composer's mastery of choral writing. This piece, composed in 1736, is one of Pergolesi's most celebrated works and is performed here with exquisite sensitivity and artistry.

The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including the renowned mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli and soprano June Anderson, whose voices blend seamlessly to create a harmonious and resonant sound. The performances are accompanied by a period-instrument ensemble, ensuring an authentic and historically informed interpretation of these timeless works.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this recording offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience. The combination of Scarlatti's and Pergolesi's masterful compositions, along with the exceptional performances by the featured artists, makes this album a standout in the world of classical choral music.

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.