Pergolesi: Stabat Mater; Salve Regina in F minor; Salve Regina in A minor

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi's sacred choral masterpieces with this captivating album. Released in 1999 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, this collection showcases Pergolesi's profound compositions, including the renowned "Stabat Mater" and two versions of the "Salve Regina" in F minor and A minor. The album spans a rich hour of choral and classical music, featuring the exquisite vocals of Barbara Bonney and Andreas Scholl, accompanied by the talented Les Talens Lyriques under the direction of Christophe Rousset.

Pergolesi, an Italian composer of the Baroque era, demonstrates his mastery of emotional expression and musical innovation in these sacred works. The "Stabat Mater," a sequence attributed to the 13th-century Franciscan poet Jacopone da Todi, is a poignant meditation on the sorrow of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion of Jesus. Pergolesi's setting is a tour de force of choral writing, blending intense passion with moments of tender devotion.

The album also includes two versions of the "Salve Regina," a Marian hymn that dates back to the 11th century. Pergolesi's settings, one in F minor and the other in A minor, edited by Robert King, offer a profound exploration of the hymn's themes of supplication and mercy. The contrasting keys and interpretations provide a rich and varied listening experience.

This album is a testament to Pergolesi's enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of his sacred music. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a profound and moving journey through some of the most beautiful choral works ever composed.