Virtù e nobiltà: Theorbo Music in Baroque Rome

Immerse yourself in the rich musical tapestry of Baroque Rome with "Virtù e nobiltà: Theorbo Music in Baroque Rome" by Giovanni Girolamo Kapsberger. Released on September 20, 2019, under the Metronome label, this album is a captivating journey through the medieval genre, showcasing the virtuosity and elegance of the theorbo, a plucked string instrument popular during the Baroque period.

Kapsberger, a renowned composer and performer of his time, presents a collection of 32 intricate and expressive pieces, each offering a unique glimpse into the musical landscape of 17th-century Rome. The album spans a duration of one hour, featuring compositions from Kapsberger's "Libro quarto d'intavolatura di chitarone" and excerpts from "Libro terzo d'intavolatura di chitarone." The tracks include a variety of forms such as toccatas, preludes, galliards, currents, and canaries, each demonstrating Kapsberger's mastery of the theorbo and his innovative approach to composition.

Highlights of the album include the lively "Gagliarda quinta," the contemplative "Preludio ottavo," and the dynamic "Passacaglia," each piece showcasing Kapsberger's ability to evoke a range of emotions and atmospheres. The album also features the "Canzone prima" and "Sarabanda," which are notable for their intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity.

"Virtù e nobiltà: Theorbo Music in Baroque Rome" is not just a collection of historical pieces but a testament to Kapsberger's enduring influence on the repertoire for the theorbo. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of medieval music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, highlighting the timeless beauty and sophistication of Kapsberger's compositions.