In her review, Kate Bolton-Porciatti finds Concerto Italiano’s lyrical set of 17th-century motets by Stradella to be revelatory
Stradella
Mottetti
Monica Piccinini (soprano), Sonia Tedla et al; Concerto Italiano/Rinaldo Alessandrini
Naïve OP7192 65:41 mins
Clip: Stradella's Exultate Exultate in Deo fideles
Alessandro Stradella’s dissolute life and dramatic murder in 1682 have inspired a handful of operas and a romanticised novel, yet his music has been surprisingly neglected in more recent times.
Concerto Italiano’s new release, therefore, makes a very welcome addition to the catalogue, presenting a handful of world-premiere recordings in new editions by Rinaldo Alessandrini – the ensemble’s founder and director since 1984.
We’re treated to five motets and two instrumental works revealing that Stradella’s remarkably varied idiom is refined, expressive and felicitous – notwithstanding his lurid autobiography.
The album includes a series of Marian motets whose fragrant texts and lyrical, often florid, lines are beautifully realised by Concerto Italiano.
Particularly lovely are the soprano duets of In tribulationibus which showcase the radiant voices of Monica Piccinini and Sonia Tedla.
Stradella’s fervent setting of Sistite sidera is another highlight, Tedla’s agile and effortless soprano stylishly supported by pliant and responsive instrumental playing.
The most substantial work on the album is Convocamini, congregamini, whose text and evocative music describe Lucifer’s attempts to unite the spirits of Hell against the Virgin.
Stradella’s theatrical writing includes a series of virtuosic display pieces for each of the five soloists as well as some intensely expressive ensemble writing.
Bass Gabriele Lombardi makes for a characterful and bellicose Lucifer and the ensemble is well balanced in Naïve’s fine recording.
In sum, this revelatory album is a wonderful way to celebrate Concerto Italiano’s 40th birthday. Kate Bolton-Porciatti