Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Baroque music with Giovanni Battista Pergolesi's captivating album, "Stabat mater; Violin Concerto; Salve Regina in C minor." Released in 2009 under the prestigious Archiv Produktion label, this collection offers a profound exploration of Pergolesi's sacred and instrumental works, performed by the renowned Orchestra Mozart under the baton of the late, great conductor Claudio Abbado.
The album opens with Pergolesi's poignant "Stabat Mater," a deeply moving composition that showcases the exquisite vocals of soprano Julia Kleiter and contralto Sara Mingardo. This masterpiece, composed during the final weeks of Pergolesi's life, is a profound meditation on the sorrow of the Virgin Mary, blending devotional intensity with operatic grandeur.
Following the "Stabat Mater," the album presents Pergolesi's Violin Concerto in B-Flat Major, a brilliant display of Baroque instrumental virtuosity. The concerto's three movements—Allegro, Largo, and Allegro—highlight the orchestra's technical prowess and the composer's ability to evoke a range of emotions through his music.
The album concludes with Pergolesi's "Salve Regina in C Minor," another deeply spiritual work that complements the "Stabat Mater" in its somber and reflective tone. This setting of the Marian hymn features the ethereal vocals of Julia Kleiter, creating a sense of tranquility and reverence.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a testament to Pergolesi's enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of Baroque music. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the beauty and depth of Pergolesi's compositions.