Tirsi

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of Baroque chamber music with Niccolò Jommelli's "Tirsi: Soprano Cantatas," a captivating collection of four chamber cantatas for soprano, strings, and harpsichord. Released in 2014 by Pan Classics, this album showcases a lesser-known yet exquisite side of Jommelli's compositional genius, performed beautifully by soprano Yetzabel Arias Fernandez and the ensemble Stile Galante, under the direction of Stefano Aresi.

The album features a rich tapestry of vocal and instrumental pieces, including arias and recitatives from various cantatas such as "Didone abbandonata," "La gelosia," and "Partir conviene, addio!" The performances are complemented by Andrea Friggi's delicate harpsichord playing and the elegant string arrangements, creating a harmonious blend that transports the audience to the opulent courts of 18th-century Europe.

"Tirsi: Soprano Cantatas" is a testament to Jommelli's mastery of the Baroque style, offering a unique opportunity to explore his chamber works. The album's duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes provides a comprehensive journey through Jommelli's vocal and instrumental prowess, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a delightful and enriching listening experience.

September 2, 2014

2014 Pan Classics

About Niccolò Jommelli

Niccolò Jommelli, born in Aversa, Italy, in 1714, was a pioneering composer of the Neapolitan School whose innovative works left an indelible mark on the operatic landscape of the mid-eighteenth century. Known for his eclectic style, Jommelli seamlessly blended Italian, German, and French musical elements, earning admiration from contemporaries like Mozart. His operatic reforms, which included reducing the ornateness of style and the dominance of star singers, significantly influenced the genre. Jommelli's prolific career spanned over 220 stage works, including more than 60 operas, as well as numerous oratorios, cantatas, masses, and chamber music. His journey took him through major European cities, including Rome, Vienna, Stuttgart, and Naples, where he held prestigious positions such as "Ober-Kapellmeister" at the ducal court of Stuttgart and vice-chapelmaster at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Despite suffering a stroke in 1771, Jommelli continued to compose until his death in 1774, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences today.