Zelenka: I penitenti al sepolcro del redentore

Immerse yourself in the profound and moving world of Jan Dismas Zelenka's "I Penitenti al Sepolcro del Redentore," a masterful oratorio that stands as a testament to the composer's genius. Originally commissioned by Augustus III for a Good Friday performance in 1736, this work deviates from traditional Gospel settings, instead focusing on a poetic narrative that delves deep into themes of penitence and redemption.

Recorded in 2004 by Supraphon, this album features a stellar cast of performers, including the renowned soprano Magdalena Kožená, tenor Martin Prokeš, and bass Michael Pospíšil, all under the skilled direction of conductor Robert Hugo. The Capella Regia Musicalis provides a rich and authentic backdrop, bringing Zelenka's intricate compositions to life with historical accuracy and musical excellence.

The oratorio is structured into eleven captivating movements, each offering a unique blend of recitatives and arias that weave together to create a cohesive and powerful narrative. From the somber introduction to the poignant aria "Miserere mio Dio," every track is a testament to Zelenka's compositional prowess and his ability to evoke deep spiritual reflection.

This recording is a rare opportunity to experience the works of Jan Dismas Zelenka, one of the most significant figures in Czech Baroque music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "I Penitenti al Sepolcro del Redentore" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the beauty and depth of Baroque oratorio.

Jan Dismas Zelenka, born in the small Bohemian town of Louňovice pod Blaníkem in 1679, is a Baroque composer whose music has only recently begun to receive the widespread acclaim it deserves. Often hailed as the "Czech Bach," Zelenka's compositions are celebrated for their harmonic inventiveness and masterful counterpoint. Raised by an organist father, Zelenka's musical education began at the Prague Jesuit College and continued in Vienna. His professional life was spent in Dresden, where he served as a principal double-bass player and composer for the Saxon court. Zelenka's output is predominantly sacred, reflecting his deep religious fervor, and includes masses, requiems, oratorios, and various liturgical works. His music, characterized by its adventurous harmonies and intricate polyphony, has seen a remarkable resurgence in the last few decades, captivating audiences and musicians alike. Today, festivals dedicated to his work, such as the Podblanický hudební podzim and the international Zelenka Festival Prague, celebrate his enduring legacy.