Venise sur Garonne: Canzonas & Sonatas by Giovanni Gabrieli

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, polyphonic tapestry of the late Renaissance with Giovanni Gabrieli's "Venise sur Garonne: Canzonas & Sonatas." This captivating album, released on November 17, 2014, under the FLORA label, showcases the masterful compositions of one of the most influential composers of the Venetian School. Spanning a generous 79 minutes, this choral and instrumental journey is a testament to Gabrieli's innovative use of space, harmony, and rhythm.

The album features a stunning collection of Gabrieli's canzonas and sonatas, drawn from his seminal works "Sacrae symphoniae" and "Canzoni et sonate." Each piece is a marvel of contrapuntal complexity and expressive depth, demonstrating Gabrieli's mastery of the Venetian polychoral style. The ensemble Les ... delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, bringing to life the intricate textures and dynamic contrasts of Gabrieli's music.

From the triumphant fanfares of "Canzon per sonar duodecimi toni a 10" to the serene beauty of "Sonata pian e forte," this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Gabrieli's diverse musical language. The inclusion of pieces from different periods of Gabrieli's career provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of his style, making this album an essential addition to any classical music collection.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a newcomer eager to explore this rich historical period, "Venise sur Garonne" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. Let the timeless compositions of Giovanni Gabrieli transport you to the grandeur of 16th-century Venice, where the echoes of his music still resonate through the centuries.

17 november 2014

2014 Flora

About Giovanni Gabrieli

Giovanni Gabrieli, born around 1554, was a pioneering Italian composer and organist whose work marked the transition from Renaissance to Baroque music. As a key figure of the Venetian School, Gabrieli's compositions are renowned for their grandeur and innovation, blending vocal and instrumental elements with masterful skill. Born into a family of modest means, Gabrieli's musical journey was shaped by his uncle, the esteemed composer Andrea Gabrieli, from whom he took his surname. By 1585, Gabrieli had secured prestigious roles as the organist at St Mark's Basilica and director of music at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, positions that allowed him to influence and inspire generations of musicians. His choral works, characterised by their antiphonal effects and rich textures, continue to captivate audiences and remain staples in the classical repertoire. Gabrieli's legacy endures as a testament to his enduring impact on Western music.