Zelenka: Il diamante

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of Baroque music with Jan Dismas Zelenka's "Il diamante, ZWV 177," a captivating serenata that showcases the composer's mastery of the Italianate secular vocal-instrumental form. Originally composed in 1737, this album presents a rare opportunity to explore Zelenka's unique contributions to the genre, which are often overshadowed by his contemporaries like Handel and Vivaldi.

"Il diamante" is a testament to Zelenka's skill and creativity, featuring a rich tapestry of recitatives, arias, and choruses that highlight the composer's ability to blend dramatic storytelling with exquisite musical craftsmanship. The album opens with a lively Sinfonia, setting the stage for a series of enchanting vocal performances that span a wide range of moods and expressions.

Recorded in the acoustically stunning Church of the Virgin Mary in Prague, this 2009 release captures the essence of Zelenka's vision with remarkable clarity and depth. The Inegal Ensemble and Prague Baroque Soloists, under the direction of Adam Viktora, bring the composer's intricate score to life with a performance that is both historically informed and deeply expressive. The album's duration of 1 hour and 37 minutes offers a comprehensive exploration of Zelenka's artistry, making it an essential addition to any Baroque music enthusiast's collection.

With its intricate harmonies, vivid orchestration, and compelling narrative, "Il diamante, ZWV 177" is a true gem in the Baroque repertoire, offering a glimpse into the rich musical heritage of the Czech composer Jan Dismas Zelenka. Whether you're a seasoned Baroque aficionado or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

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.