Giovanni Croce: Sacred Treasures of Venice
Giovanni Croce (1557–1609) was a distinguished Italian composer of the late Renaissance, deeply associated with the Venetian School. He is renowned for both sacred and secular music, with a particular prominence as a madrigalist, and was a major figure in the cultural golden age of Venetian polyphony. Get ready to be immersed in an incredible world of music with fascinating works by Giovanni Croce, brought to you by STAGE+.
Life and Career
Born in Chioggia near Venice, Croce was recruited at an early age by Gioseffo Zarlino, the eminent choirmaster of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice. This set the foundation for his illustrious career. Croce took holy orders in 1585 and served as a parish priest at Santa Maria Formosa while maintaining close ties to St. Mark’s. He served first as a singer, then as vice-director, and finally as maestro di cappella (music director) in 1603. He remained director of music at St. Mark’s until his death in 1609.
Fascinating Works and Musical Influence
In 'Sacred Treasures of Venice: Motets from the Golden Age of Venetian Polyphony', you will rediscover the authentic beauty of Giovanni's unique style. This is a priceless opportunity to explore his virtuosic interpretation of motets, a popular form of choral music emerging from the vibrant scene of Renaissance Venice. Croce’s motets and settings for Lenten observances, St Joseph, and the Annunciation represent “sacred treasures” from the golden age of Venetian polyphony. His works are celebrated for their grandeur, antiphonal effects, and the unique Venetian sonority, often utilizing double choirs and spatial separation characteristic of music at St. Mark’s.
Additionally, 'Miserere: A Sequence of Music for Lent, St Joseph & the Annunciation' takes listeners on a profound spiritual journey. Performed by the London Oratory Schola Cantorum under the skilled direction of Charles Cole, this sequence manifests the spiritual intensity of Lent and the Annunciation, showcasing Croce's deep understanding and translation of faith into harmonic melodies.
Furthermore, the Westminster Cathedral Choir, led by Martin Baker, presents compelling interpretations of Croce's pieces. Baker, with a commendable grasp of the composer's intent, artfully brings out the textures inherent in Croce's works. The emotive performances of the choir effortlessly transport listeners back to the richly artistic atmosphere of 16th-century Venice.
Dive in and uncover the captivatingly timeless appeal of Giovanni Croce's works, where music, spirituality, and history form an enchanting symphony.