Domenico Scarlatti (1685–1757) Salve Regina
Domenico Scarlatti, born the sixth child of Alessandro Scarlatti, is best known today for his approximately 550 sonatas for keyboard instruments. While a large portion of his operas and sacred works have been lost, his surviving sacred compositions already exhibit the characteristic harmonic richness and melodic independence that are also found in his later works. The setting of Salve Regina captivates with its vibrant harmonies and memorable melodic lines, combined with dramatic expressiveness and emotional depth. His accessible style is further enhanced by a sophisticated compositional technique.
Alessandro Scarlatti (1660–1725) Cantata Su le sponde del Tebro
Alessandro Scarlatti, one of the most prolific cantata composers of his era, created more than 600 works in this genre. He often favored solo voices with continuo, but occasionally also employed other instruments such as strings, recorders, and trumpets. The cantata Su le sponde del Tebro stands out due to its high technical demands on a tenor voice and trumpet. Thematically, it deals with unrequited love and impresses with its alternation of arias and recitatives.
Johann Adolf Hasse (1699–1783) Salve Regina
Johann Adolf Hasse achieved great acclaim in Italy and Germany during the 18th century, primarily for his serious operas. Appreciated by Handel and celebrated in Vienna, his setting of Salve Regina reflects a distinctive operatic character, marked by simple yet artfully ornamented melodies. The music is characterized by expressive shifts between lyrical and virtuosic passages, with the soloist being particularly challenged in the fast sections.
Alessandro Scarlatti Cantata Infirmata vulnerata
Alessandro Scarlatti's cantata Infirmata vulnerata explores the theme of unrequited love, which is complemented by an optimistic undertone. Expressive violin parts and artful arias characterize the work, conveying both the protagonist's profound despair and the hope for a happy ending.
Alessandro Scarlatti Cantata O di Bethlehem altera
With his Christmas cantata O di Bethlehem altera, Alessandro Scarlatti recounts the birth of Christ in classical form. The piece opens with a graceful introduction, followed by lively, richly ornamented arias and a vibrant orchestral texture. It concludes with a graceful melody that musically captures the shepherds' adoration on Christmas Eve.