Jan Dismas Zelenka: Missa omnium sanctorum, ZWV 21, Christe eleison, ZWV 29 & Barbara dira effera!, ZWV 164

Immerse yourself in the Baroque splendor of Jan Dismas Zelenka's masterful compositions with this captivating album, featuring three of his most remarkable works. Recorded in the acoustically stunning Church of the Virgin Mary under the Chain in Prague, this collection offers a rich and authentic listening experience that transports you to the heart of 18th-century European sacred music.

The centerpiece of the album is Zelenka's Missa Omnium Sanctorum, ZWV 21, a grand and intricate mass composed in 1741. This monumental work showcases Zelenka's unique voice within the Baroque tradition, blending the grandeur of the high Baroque style with a distinctive personal touch. The mass is performed with exceptional skill and sensitivity by the Inegal Ensemble, Adam Viktora, and the Prague Baroque Soloists, bringing out the full richness and complexity of Zelenka's score.

In addition to the mass, the album presents two world premiere recordings: Christe Eleison, ZWV 29 and Barbara Dira Effera!, ZWV 164. These lesser-known works offer a fascinating glimpse into Zelenka's versatility and innovation, demonstrating his ability to push the boundaries of Baroque composition. Christe Eleison is a delicate and introspective piece, while Barbara Dira Effera! is a dramatic and powerful setting of a text from the Lamentations of Jeremiah.

The album's performances are marked by a deep understanding of Baroque performance practice, with the ensemble employing period instruments and techniques to create an authentic and engaging sound. The recording captures the natural acoustics of the Church of the Virgin Mary under the Chain, adding depth and resonance to the performances.

Whether you're a seasoned fan of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience. With its stunning performances and exceptional sound quality, it's an essential addition to any classical music collection.

Jan Dismas Zelenka, born in 1679 in Louňovice pod Blaníkem, Bohemia, was a remarkable composer and musician of the Baroque era. His compositions, known for their harmonic ingenuity and mastery of counterpoint, have earned him a place among the greats of the period. Zelenka's works span a wide range of vocal and instrumental genres, including masses, oratorios, operas, and chamber music. His Trio Sonatas, in particular, are celebrated for their tuneful melodies, rhythmic unpredictability, and harmonically adventurous spirit, making them both delightful and challenging to experience. Despite his talent, Zelenka's fame was overshadowed during his lifetime, with even the renowned J.S. Bach recognizing his genius. Today, Zelenka's music continues to captivate audiences with its inventive and expressive qualities, offering a unique journey into the Baroque era.