Colonna: L'Assalonne

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Giovanni Paolo Colonna's "L'Assalonne," a masterful oratorio that showcases the composer's prowess and the enchanting voices of its performers. Released in 2015 under the Tactus label, this album is a testament to Colonna's significant contributions to the 17th-century Italian music scene.

"L'Assalonne" is a dramatic oratorio for five voices, beautifully performed by a stellar cast including Elena Biscuola, Elena Bertuzzi, and Alberto Allegrezza, accompanied by the talented Ensemble Les Nations. The album spans a captivating 63 minutes, featuring a series of arias, recitatives, duets, and choruses that highlight the intricate storytelling and musical virtuosity of the Baroque era.

The oratorio unfolds with a powerful chorus, "All'armi, a battaglia," setting the stage for a narrative rich in drama and depth. Each track, from the stirring arias like "Se il suo crine mi porge la sorte" to the poignant recitatives such as "Pria che la nova aurora," offers a glimpse into the intricate musical language of the time. The album culminates in a grand chorus, "Al soglio reale," leaving the listener with a sense of the grandeur and complexity of Baroque composition.

Giovanni Paolo Colonna's "L'Assalonne" is not just an album; it is a journey through the musical landscape of the 17th century, brought to life by exceptional performances and meticulous attention to detail. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.

March 3, 2015

2015 Tactus

About Giovanni Paolo Colonna

Giovanni Paolo Colonna, born in 1637 in Bologna, was a multifaceted musical figure whose compositions and teachings left an indelible mark on the Baroque era. As a composer, organist, and organ builder, Colonna's work reflects the rich musical traditions of his time, blending the Roman church cantata style of his mentor Giacomo Carissimi with a forward-looking approach that hinted at the grandeur of George Frideric Handel. His sacred music, including masses, psalms, motets, and requiems, showcases his mastery of the genre and his ability to evoke deep spiritual emotions.

Colonna's career was marked by his service to some of Italy's most prominent courts, including those of Ferrara, Parma, Modena, and Florence. He was also a pivotal figure in the musical community of Bologna, serving as the chapel-master and organist of the prestigious San Petronio Basilica and founding the Accademia Filarmonica di Bologna, where he served as president. His influence extended beyond his compositions; Colonna established a school that produced distinguished musicians, including the renowned Giovanni Maria Buononcini.

Colonna's legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its depth and beauty. His contributions to the world of music are a testament to his genius and his enduring impact on the Baroque period.