A. Scarlatti: Responsories for the Holy Week: Good Friday

Immerse yourself in the profound and reflective atmosphere of Holy Week with Alessandro Scarlatti's "Responsories for the Holy Week: Good Friday." This captivating album, released in 2020 on Deutsche Harmonia Mundi, offers a deeply moving journey through the sacred music of the Baroque era. Comprising seventeen tracks that span a little over an hour, this collection is a testament to Scarlatti's mastery of both vocal and instrumental composition.

The album features the renowned ensemble La Stagione Armonica, conducted by Sergio Balestracci, who deliver a performance of remarkable clarity and expressiveness. The choral pieces, known as responsories, are interspersed with four substantial organ fugues, each played with splendid virtuosity by Carlo Steno Rossi on a restored 18th-century organ. These fugues add a layer of depth and complexity, showcasing Scarlatti's skill in both solo and ensemble writing.

Born in Sicily in 1660, Alessandro Scarlatti composed these responsories to trace the suffering story of Jesus Christ through music of unparalleled richness and emotional resonance. The album opens with the dramatic "Toccata e fuga per organo" and continues with a series of motets and responsories that convey a sense of imploring fervor, particularly when accompanied by the chamber organ. The upper voices occasionally exhibit some tuning inconsistencies, but the overall performance is secure and compelling.

Highlights include the motets "Ad Dominum cum tribularer" and "Caro mea," as well as the responsories "Omnes amici mei" and "Tenebrae factae sunt." Each piece is a testament to Scarlatti's ability to evoke deep spiritual and emotional responses through his music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Alessandro Scarlatti, born in Palermo in 1660, stands as one of the most influential figures in Baroque music, particularly renowned for his operatic works and chamber cantatas. Often hailed as the "Italian Orpheus," Scarlatti's compositions laid the groundwork for the Neapolitan school of opera, making him a pivotal figure in the development of classical harmony and the Italian overture. His prolific career spanned over a hundred operas, more than 600 cantatas, and numerous religious works, showcasing his versatility and innovation. Scarlatti's music, characterized by its vividness and singability, reflects his early struggles and relentless drive, making each piece a testament to his genius. His influence extended far beyond his time, inspiring composers like Mozart and leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.