Strozzi: Arie, cantate & lamenti

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of Baroque vocal music with Barbara Strozzi's "Arie, Cantate & Lamenti," a captivating collection released in 1998. This album showcases the remarkable talent of Barbara Strozzi, a pioneering female composer of the 17th century, whose works are brought to life by the exquisite performances of soprano Mona Spägele and Ensemble Incantato.

The album features a selection of Strozzi's most evocative cantatas, arias, and laments, drawn from her published works such as "Cantate, ariette e duetti, Op. 2" and "Diporti di Euterpe, Op. 7." Each piece is a testament to Strozzi's mastery of the Italian vocal styles of her time, blending passion, drama, and technical virtuosity. From the playful "Amor dormiglione" to the poignant "Il lamento," the album offers a rich tapestry of human experiences, beautifully rendered by Spägele's expressive voice and the ensemble's sensitive accompaniment.

With a duration of just over an hour, "Arie, Cantate & Lamenti" is a compelling journey through the Baroque era, highlighting the innovative spirit of Barbara Strozzi. The album's nine tracks, recorded with clarity and warmth, provide an intimate glimpse into the world of this extraordinary composer, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. The performances by Mona Spägele and Ensemble Incantato are nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the essence of Strozzi's compositions with precision and artistry.

June 2, 1998

1998 CPO

About Barbara Strozzi

Barbara Strozzi, born in 1619 in Venice, was a trailblazing composer and singer of the Baroque period, renowned for her extraordinary vocal prowess and prolific output. As one of the few women of her time to publish her own compositions, Strozzi defied social norms and left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. She published eight volumes of her own music, boasting more secular vocal works in print than any other composer of her era, all without the backing of the Church or consistent noble patronage. Strozzi's music, primarily composed for soprano, reflects her deep ties to the operatic traditions of her native Venice, showcasing her unique blend of virtuosity and emotional depth. Her life, marked by creativity and intellectual fervour, continues to inspire and captivate music enthusiasts today.