Gabrieli: Sonate e Canzoni "per concertar con l'organo"

Album Description

Dive into the rich tapestry of Renaissance polyphony with Giovanni Gabrieli's "Gabrieli: Sonate e Canzoni 'per concertar con l'organo'." This exquisite collection, released in 2007 by Harmonia Mundi, showcases the masterful compositions of one of the most influential Venetian composers of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, featuring 18 meticulously crafted tracks that highlight Gabrieli's innovative use of space, rhythm, and harmony.

Performances by Concerto Palatino, under the direction of Bruce Dickey and Charles Toet, bring these historic pieces to life with stunning clarity and precision. The album draws from Gabrieli's seminal works, including "Sacrae Symphoniae" (1597) and "Canzoni e sonate" (1615), offering a comprehensive overview of his contributions to the development of concertato style. Each track, from the intricate "Canzon septimi toni a 8" to the majestic "Canzon XVI a 12," demonstrates Gabrieli's genius in creating music that resonates with both historical significance and timeless beauty.

This album is a testament to Gabrieli's enduring legacy, providing listeners with an immersive experience of the Venetian polychoral style. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Renaissance music or a curious newcomer, "Gabrieli: Sonate e Canzoni 'per concertar con l'organo'" promises an enriching journey through the golden age of Venetian music.

November 6, 2007

2007 harmonia mundi s.a.

About Giovanni Gabrieli

Giovanni Gabrieli, born around 1554, was a pioneering Italian composer and organist whose work marked the transition from Renaissance to Baroque music. As a key figure of the Venetian School, Gabrieli's compositions are renowned for their grandeur and innovation, blending vocal and instrumental elements with masterful skill. Born into a family of modest means, Gabrieli's musical journey was shaped by his uncle, the esteemed composer Andrea Gabrieli, from whom he took his surname. By 1585, Gabrieli had secured prestigious roles as the organist at St Mark's Basilica and director of music at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, positions that allowed him to influence and inspire generations of musicians. His choral works, characterised by their antiphonal effects and rich textures, continue to captivate audiences and remain staples in the classical repertoire. Gabrieli's legacy endures as a testament to his enduring impact on Western music.