Dive into the rich tapestry of early Baroque music with Claudio Monteverdi's masterful compositions in this captivating album. Released in 1995, this collection brings together some of Monteverdi's most compelling works, performed by the esteemed New London Consort under the direction of Philip Pickett. The album features three distinct yet interconnected pieces: "Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda," a dramatic narrative set to music, "Il ballo delle ingrate," a semi-dramatic ballet, and "Tirsi e Clori," a pastoral ballet.
The album opens with "Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda," a vivid and intense depiction of a battle between the crusader Tancredi and the Saracen warrior Clorinda. This work is a prime example of Monteverdi's innovative use of musical storytelling, blending recitative and aria to create a deeply engaging narrative.
Next, "Il ballo delle ingrate" transports listeners to a world of myth and magic. This ballet, set to a libretto by Ottavio Rinuccini, tells the story of ungrateful women who are punished by Pluto, the god of the underworld. The piece is a stunning blend of vocal and instrumental music, showcasing Monteverdi's mastery of both.
The album concludes with "Tirsi e Clori," a pastoral ballet that captures the innocence and beauty of rural life. This charming piece features a delightful mix of vocal and instrumental music, providing a serene contrast to the more dramatic works that precede it.
Throughout the album, the performances are marked by their clarity and precision, with the New London Consort bringing out the intricate details of Monteverdi's scores. The vocalists, including Catherine Bott, Tessa Bonner, and John Mark Ainsley, deliver powerful and nuanced performances that bring the music to life. The instrumentalists, led by Philip Pickett, provide a rich and vibrant backdrop, highlighting the composer's innovative use of harmony and rhythm.
This album is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the music of the early Baroque period. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the works of Claudio Monteverdi, one of the most influential composers of his time. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.
Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda, SV 153: 1. Tancredi, che Clorinda un homo stimaClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Andrew King, John Mark Ainsley, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda, SV 153: 2. Notte, che nei profondo oscuro senoClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Andrew King, John Mark Ainsley, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda, SV 153: 3. Torna l'ira nei coriClaudio Monteverdi, John Mark Ainsley, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il Combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda, SV 153: 4. Amico, hai vintoClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, John Mark Ainsley, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 1. SinfoniaClaudio Monteverdi, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 2. Del 'implacabil DioClaudio Monteverdi, Tessa Bonner, Catherine Bott, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 3. Bella madre d'amorClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Michael George, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 4. S'invan su l'arco tendiClaudio Monteverdi, Tessa Bonner, Michael George, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 5. Udite, uditeClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Catherine King, John Mark Ainsley, Andrew King, Michael George, Simon Grant, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 6. Ecco ver noi l'adolorate squadreClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Tessa Bonner, Michael George, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 7. Entrata - BalloClaudio Monteverdi, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 8. Dal tenebroso orror del mio gran regnoClaudio Monteverdi, Michael George, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Il ballo delle ingrate, SV 167: 9. Ahi troppo è duroClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Tessa Bonner, Catherine King, Helen Parker, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Tirsi e Clori, "Ballo" SV 145: 1. Per monti e per valli, belissima CloriClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Andrew King, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
Tirsi e Clori, "Ballo" SV 145: 2. Balliamo che'l gregge al suon de l'avenaClaudio Monteverdi, Catherine Bott, Andrew King, New London Consort, Philip Pickett
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