Zelenka: Missa sanctissimae trinitatis

Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate world of Baroque music with Jan Dismas Zelenka's "Missa sanctissimae trinitatis." This captivating album, released in 2012, showcases Zelenka's mastery of vocal-instrumental sacred works, with a particular focus on his profound and intense "Missa Sanctissimae Trinitatis" in A minor, ZWV 17. Composed in 1736, this mass is the first of five high masses Zelenka wrote in the latter part of his life, each one a testament to his unique compositional style and deep spiritual insight.

The album spans a total of 22 tracks, featuring a blend of arias, recitatives, and the full structure of the Mass Ordinary, including the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. Zelenka's use of color and texture is evident throughout, with the inclusion of flutes and a chalumeau in the Agnus Dei adding a distinctive touch to the traditional Mass setting.

Recorded in the acoustically rich Salvator's church in Prague, the album benefits from the expertise of a stellar cast of performers, including Monika Frimmer and Markus Brutscher, under the guidance of the Inégal Ensemble. The intensity and depth of Zelenka's music are beautifully captured in this recording, providing a compelling introduction to the composer's late masses and his significant contributions to the Baroque repertoire.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, "Missa sanctissimae trinitatis" offers a rewarding and engaging listening experience. The album's duration of just over an hour ensures that you can enjoy Zelenka's masterful compositions in a single, immersive session, making it an excellent choice for both casual listeners and dedicated music lovers alike.

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.