This release features his popular Stabat Mater, RV 621. It also includes the vesper psalm Nisi Dominus RV 608. Also included is n furore iustissimæ iræ RV 626.
The program also features three instrumental works by the Red Priest. The Concerto for strings in G minor RV 157 opens the program. The Sinfonia in B minor ‘Al Santo Sepolcro’ RV 169 and Concerto ‘Madrigalesco’ in D minor RV 129 are also included.
It's a smart decision. By alternating between instrumental and vocal works, listener interest is kept high.
If you only know Vivaldi through "The Four Seasons," give this release a listen. Vivaldi's vocal works are exceptionally well-crafted. And they're idiomatic, existing in a different world than his instrumental compositions.
Carlo Vistoli has a remarkably strong voice. Countertenors simulate the vocal sound of the Baroque castrati. To do so, they sing in the range of a mezzo-soprano, without sounding falsetto. It's an art and one that Vistoli has mastered.
His singing has a nice, full sound. His phrasing is smooth, and his vocal ornamentations sound natural and unforced. His performances were real pleasures to listen to.
The Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin are past masters of historically authentic performances. This ensemble has been active since 1982. It plays with a warm, transparent sound. It's not thin, but rather crystalline and finely balanced.
The Akademie have a series of landmark recordings in their catalog. This is a strong addition to that list.
Antonio Vivaldi: Stabat Mater, RV 621
Carlo Vistoli, countertenor
Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin; Georg Kallweit, concertmanster
Harmonia Mundi HMM 902383
No comments:
Post a Comment