Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of early Baroque music with Montserrat Figueras' captivating album, "Tarquinio Merula: Arie E Capricci A Voce Sola." This exquisite collection, released on August 25, 2009, under the Alia Vox label, showcases the rare and delightful compositions of Tarquinio Merula, a 17th-century Italian composer whose works are brought to life with stunning clarity and artistry.
Spanning just over 55 minutes, this album features ten meticulously performed tracks that blend medieval and Gregorian chant influences with the burgeoning styles of the Baroque era. Montserrat Figueras, renowned for her expressive and nuanced vocal performances, takes center stage, delivering a mesmerizing rendition of Merula's "Arie E Capricci A Voce Sola," a set of solo arias and capriccios composed around 1633 and later in Venice.
Accompanied by a stellar ensemble of musicians, including Jordi Savall on viole da gamba, Rolf Lislevand on guitar and theorbe, Lorenz Duftschmid on violone, Andrew Lawrence-King on harp, Jean-Pierre Canihac on cornet, and Ton Koopman on clavecin, Figueras navigates Merula's intricate melodies and harmonies with grace and precision. The album was recorded in the serene setting of the Église de Valkkoog in the Netherlands, adding an authentic and resonant backdrop to these historic compositions.
From the whimsical "Folle È Ben Che Si Crede" to the spiritual "Chi Vuol Ch'Io M'Inamori - (Conzonetta Spirituale)," each track offers a unique glimpse into Merula's inventive and often humorous musical style. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of early music or a curious newcomer, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout