Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Agostino Steffani's "Vocal Chamber Duets," a captivating collection of seven duets for soprano and tenor, accompanied by a delicate ensemble of cello, theorbo, and harpsichord. Released on February 27, 2015, under the Brilliant Classics label, this album offers a unique glimpse into the late Baroque period, showcasing Steffani's innovative approach to vocal chamber music.
Steffani, a Roman Catholic priest, diplomat, and composer, broke away from the conventional Baroque practice of pairing a solo voice with a basso continuo accompaniment. Instead, he championed the equal partnership of two voices, foreshadowing the duets found in the operas of Haydn and Mozart. This album presents a delightful selection of secular texts that explore the complexities of love, both fulfilled and unrequited.
The duets on this album are notable for their melodic invention and intricate counterpoint, characteristics that set Steffani's work apart. The equal partnership of the voices creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience, while the instrumental accompaniment adds depth and richness to the performances.
The album features the talented soprano Elena Bertuzzi and tenor Alessio Tosi, whose voices blend beautifully to bring Steffani's compositions to life. The instrumental ensemble, consisting of Rebecca Ferri on cello, Michele Pasotti on theorbo, and Francesco Baroni on harpsichord, provides a delicate and nuanced backdrop to the vocal performances.
With a total duration of 50 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of Agostino Steffani and his influential contributions to the vocal chamber duet genre. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Vocal Chamber Duets" offers a captivating and enjoyable listening experience.
Vinylscout