Cavalli: Requiem & Antiennes à la Vierge

Immerse yourself in the sacred and serene world of Francesco Cavalli's "Requiem & Antiennes à la Vierge," a captivating choral album released in 1993. This exquisite collection features the renowned composer's masterful "Requiem Missa pro defunctis," a powerful and moving piece for double choir a cappella, alongside four enchanting anthems dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The album, meticulously produced by Pierre Verany, showcases Cavalli's profound musicality and his ability to evoke deep spiritual reflection through his compositions.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Requiem aeternam," setting the tone for the rest of the piece. It continues with the poignant "Kyrie Eleison," followed by the dramatic "Dies Irae." The "Offertorium" offers a moment of contemplation, while the "Sanctus" and "Agnus Dei" conclude the requiem with a sense of peace and resolution. The four anthems to the Virgin Mary—"Ave Regina caelorum," "Regina coeli laetare," "Salve Regina," and "Alma redemptoris mater"—add a layer of devotion and reverence, each piece a testament to Cavalli's skill in crafting sacred music.

Spanning just over 51 minutes, this album is a testament to Cavalli's enduring legacy. The ensemble Akademia, under the direction of Françoise Lasserre, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Cavalli's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Francesco Cavalli, born in 1602 in the Venetian city of Crema, was a pivotal figure in the early Baroque period, renowned for his prolific and influential work in opera. As a pupil of the legendary Claudio Monteverdi, Cavalli succeeded his mentor as the leading opera composer of the mid-17th century. His career flourished in Venice, where he composed over thirty operas, many of which premiered in the city's pioneering theatres. Cavalli's most celebrated works include 'Ormindo' (1644), 'Giasone' (1649), and 'La Calisto' (1651), which continue to captivate audiences with their rich musical tapestry and dramatic depth. Beyond his operatic achievements, Cavalli's compositions span a broad range of genres, from sacred to secular music, reflecting his versatility and enduring impact on the Baroque era.