Metastasio, Salieri : La Passione di Gesù Cristo

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and sacred world of Antonio Salieri's "La Passione di Gesù Cristo," a masterful oratorio that beautifully blends the dramatic intensity of opera with the spiritual depth of classical sacred music. Composed between 1776 and 1778, this two-part oratorio is based on the libretto by Pietro Metastasio, a renowned figure in the world of Baroque and Classical music.

Salieri, an Italian composer and teacher of the classical period, brings his unique musical language to this powerful retelling of the Passion of Christ. The oratorio is divided into two parts, each filled with a rich tapestry of recitatives, arias, and choruses that vividly depict the events leading up to and including the crucifixion. The ensemble cast, featuring soloists and choir, delivers a performance that is both moving and technically impressive.

The album, released on Fonè Records in 2001, spans a total of 1 hour and 50 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Salieri's sacred work. The tracklist includes a variety of vocal pieces, from the dramatic recitativo obbligato to the soaring arias, showcasing the full range of human emotion and musical expression. Notable tracks include "Ritornerà tra voi" from Part II, performed by Giovanni, and the powerful duet "Vi sento, oh Dio, vi sento" from Part I, featuring Maddalena and Pietro.

This recording is a testament to Salieri's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that resonates with both the heart and the soul. Whether you are a fan of classical music, opera, or sacred choral works, "La Passione di Gesù Cristo" is an album that will captivate and inspire you. Dive into the world of Antonio Salieri and experience the timeless beauty of this sacred oratorio.

1 januari 2001

2001 Fonè records

About Antonio Salieri

Antonio Salieri, born in the charming town of Legnago near Verona, was a titan of the classical period, leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera and classical music. As a prolific composer, his catalog boasts an impressive 33 operas, alongside a wealth of sacred and secular choral works, and a variety of instrumental compositions. Salieri's musical journey began under the tutelage of his brother and the local organist, where he honed his skills on the harpsichord and violin. His talents swiftly propelled him to Vienna, where he became a pivotal figure in the Habsburg monarchy's musical scene, serving as the imperial court composer and music director.

Throughout his career, Salieri's operas were celebrated across Europe, from Paris to Rome, and his influence extended far beyond his own compositions. As a teacher, he mentored generations of musicians, cementing his legacy as one of the most important and famous musicians of his time. Despite the enduring myth of his rivalry with Mozart, Salieri's contributions to music are vast and deserving of recognition. His works, though less performed today, offer a rich tapestry of the late 18th-century operatic landscape, reflecting the reforms of Gluck and the evolving tastes of European audiences. Whether exploring his operas, symphonies, or chamber music, Salieri's music invites listeners to experience the passion and innovation of the classical era.