Zelenka: Il diamante

Immerse yourself in the Baroque splendor of Jan Dismas Zelenka's "Il diamante," a captivating serenata composed in 1737. This album, released in 2009 under the Nibiru label, offers a rich tapestry of vocal and instrumental works that showcase Zelenka's mastery of the Baroque style. With a running time of 1 hour and 37 minutes, the album features 19 tracks that include sinfonias, arias, recitatives, and choruses, all performed with exquisite precision by Ensemble Inégal, the Prague Baroque Soloists, and conducted by Adam Viktora.

The album opens with the lively "Sinfonia. Allegro - Adagio - Minuetto," setting the stage for a series of beautifully crafted arias and recitatives. Standout tracks include the aria "Alla madre degli amori," sung with grace by Hana Blažíková, and the dramatic recitative "Arbitro del destino." The album culminates in the joyous choruses "Godete che lice" and "Godete che lice II," which celebrate the themes of love and destiny that permeate the work.

"Il diamante" is a testament to Zelenka's compositional genius and his ability to blend vocal and instrumental elements into a cohesive and engaging whole. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of Zelenka's musical vision.

Jan Dismas Zelenka, born in 1679 in Louňovice pod Blaníkem, Bohemia, was a remarkable composer and musician of the Baroque era. His compositions, known for their harmonic ingenuity and mastery of counterpoint, have earned him a place among the greats of the period. Zelenka's works span a wide range of vocal and instrumental genres, including masses, oratorios, operas, and chamber music. His Trio Sonatas, in particular, are celebrated for their tuneful melodies, rhythmic unpredictability, and harmonically adventurous spirit, making them both delightful and challenging to experience. Despite his talent, Zelenka's fame was overshadowed during his lifetime, with even the renowned J.S. Bach recognizing his genius. Today, Zelenka's music continues to captivate audiences with its inventive and expressive qualities, offering a unique journey into the Baroque era.